Courtesy of the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District Broadcasting teacher Matt Russel, Mepham High School senior Allison Redican, teacher Lisa Kalish and CBS meteorologist Craig Allen at the Bellmore-Merrick Broadcasting mobile booth set up.
Popular STEAM Career Fair returns, state honor is recognized
By HeRneSTO GALdAMe Z hgaldamez@liherald.com
Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District’s annual STEAM Career Fair returned to John F. Kennedy High School on April 21, bringing students, families and professionals together for an evening of handson learning — and building on recent statewide recognition for the program.
More than 50 businesses, schools, medical professionals and organizations participated in this year’s fair, offering students a firsthand look at careers in science, technology, engineering, art and math.
Among those in attendance were representatives from Northwell Health, the state Department of Environmental Conserva -
tion, Weill Cornell Medicine, Barracuda Networks, Delta Airlines, Zwanger-Pesiri Radiology, and Civil Air Patrol. Several Kennedy alumni also returned to share their experiences.
Throughout the evening, students explored interactive exhibits and workshops featuring virtual reality, flight simulations, robotics, and 3D printing, while also networking directly with professionals about their day-to-day work and potential career paths.
“This event exemplifies the district’s commitment to STEAM education while connecting students with the professional community,” Roger Bing, the district’s science and STEAM chair, said. “It was especially
Continued on pAge 20
Seaford, New York516-591-3338
Seniors throw pies for mental health
Calhoun students unite for a sweet fundraiser on school campus
By JOSePH d’ALeSSAndRO jdalessandro@liherald.com
Dozens of students at Sanford H. Calhoun High School, in Merrick, put their money down for some much-needed stress relief last week, raising money for mental health awareness by taking part in an after-school Pie-a-Teacher fundraiser, a friendly, if onesided, game of dodgeball.
Last Friday, students were given sponges soaked in whipped cream that they tossed across a booth at members of the school’s faculty for donations of $5 per throw.
Wpassionate about, Joyce explained.
“Two of the students proposed doing a campaign to bring awareness to mental health, since mental health is something that a lot of students in high school suffer through,” he said. This led to the creation of Pie-A-Teacher.
e’re addressing such a serious topic in a fun and lighthearted way.
The student team’s vision went beyond the sponge toss. The leadership class is also hosting an awareness campaign in which students talk about the importance of caring for their mental health in gym classes.
AndReW BuOnO
Calhoun’s senior Student Leadership class voted for the event as its “passion project” after many students shared their own experiences with prioritizing mental health. Their instructor, Brian Joyce, teaches a number of leadership classes in the school. As a part of the senior class’s curriculum, the students propose community service projects connected to a cause they are
Senior, Sanford H. Calhoun High School
“They conducted an awareness campaign where they present to the gym classes about mental health, some statistics and letting the kids know they’re not alone, and where they can reach out to get help,” Joyce said.
The proceeds of the event will benefit the National Alliance on Mental Illness, just in time for Mental Health Awareness Month, which is recog -
Continued on pAge 28
Connecting students with potential careers
rewarding to see the level of interaction and genuine interest exhibited by those in attendance.”
The event’s continued success comes as the district’s STEAM Career Fair was recently recognized by the New York State School Boards Association as a “Champions of Change” program, for highlighting initiatives that make a meaningful impact in schools across the state. The program was selected from among dozens reviewed.
Gerard Owenburg, Kennedy’s principal, said the recognition underscores
the fair’s role in preparing students for the future.
“This year, we were honored that the New York State School Boards Association recognized our STEAM Career Fair as a program of excellence,” Owenburg said. “Since its inception, this event has grown into a cornerstone of our school’s mission to provide real-world, meaningful experiences for our students.
“For us, the true success of the STEAM fair lies in those moments when a student connects with a professional and realizes a new career path is within
their reach,” he added. “By bringing these industry experts to Kennedy High School, we are empowering our students to see themselves as the next generation of innovators and problem-solvers.”
The fair was originally developed by Rob Soel, BellmoreMerrick’s former STEAM chair, and Barbi Frank, the district’s director of advanced science research and the event’s organizer, with the goal of connecting students directly with professionals across a wide range of industries.
“The STEAM Career Fair is an incredible opportunity for our community to gain firsthand experience by connecting with professionals, learning about their day-to-day work and hearing the highlights of their careers,” Frank said. “It’s an enjoyable night for all, and it’s clear that everyone walks away having learned something new.”
Leading up to the event, Kennedy
also hosted its annual medical Scrabble fundraiser, where students competed in a science-themed version of the classic game. For the second consecutive year, seniors Cole Stern and Joseph Littman took first place.
Organizers said the fair continues to grow each year, strengthening connections between students and industry professionals while helping young people explore potential career paths.
the annual event was recently recognized by the new York State School Boards association as a “Champions of Change” program.
Photos courtesy of the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District James Wu of Kennedy’s robotics team 49968t demonstrates a robot his team has been working on for several months.
Kennedy’s Tiffany Yam honored at Heckscher
By HERNESTO GALDAMEZ hgaldamez@liherald.com
A John F. Kennedy High School senior is earning recognition on a regional stage after her artwork was selected for a prestigious museum exhibition showcasing some of Long Island’s top young talent.
Tiffany Yam’s piece debuted in late March as part of Long Island’s Best: Young Artists at the Heckscher Museum of Art, the only juried exhibition on Long Island that offers high school students the opportunity to display their work in a professional museum setting.
Yam was among 87 students selected from 456 submissions representing 69 high schools across Nassau and Suffolk counties. Participants were tasked with creating original works inspired by pieces from the museum’s permanent collection.
“Celebrating its 30th anniversary, Long Island’s Best has been a hallmark of the Museum’s educational programming for three decades, showcasing the outstanding work of over 2,000 high school students from across Long Island,” the museum said in a statement. “What began as an annual exhibition of outstanding student work has become a lasting tradition — one that recognizes excellence while nurturing the next generation of creative thinkers.
Long Island’s Best continues to be the only juried exhibition for Long Island high school students that provides the opportunity to exhibit in a museum.”
received the Renzo & Lynette Bianchi Scholarship Award and was recognized during an awards ceremony held March 29. She is a senior in Vanessa Albaneze’s Advanced Placement Drawing class at Kennedy High School.
Her artwork, titled “Encased,” was inspired by Katinka Mann’s piece “Navy,” and explores themes of contrast and perception.
“Encased” #234 by Tiffany Yam, colored pencil on illustration board. John F. Kennedy High School, grade 12, teacher Vanessa Albaneze.
In addition to being chosen for the exhibition, Yam
“My piece, ‘Encased,’ was inspired by Katinka Mann’s ‘Navy,’” Yam said. “Mann’s exploration of depth perception and dimensionality inspired me to create a similar work centered around threedimensional shapes. I aimed to capture the feeling of a dark and foreboding shell hiding a beautiful and inviting interior — a bullet case concealing a red lipstick.”
Yam created the piece by photographing a bullet lipstick casing and the lipstick itself, then digitally layering and splicing the images before rendering the final composition on illustration board using colored pencils.
“Using that reference image, I created an image on an illustration board with colored pencils,” she said. “The image explores contrasting sensory phenomena like cold versus warmth and softness versus hardness, the contrasting objects relative to human versus weapon.”
Yam’s work will remain on display at the Heckscher Museum through May 5.
She is also among 27 students selected to have their work featured at the Firefly Gallery from May 7 to 20. An opening reception is scheduled for May 8 from 7 to 9 p.m.
Earlier this school year, Yam earned a Gold Key in the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards for her piece “Congratulations,” and a Silver Key for her self-portrait, “Flickers.”
Bringing Broadway to Congregation Beth Ohr
By JOSEPH D’ALESSANDRO jdalessandro@liherald.com
Over 20 of Bellmore’s best performers are preparing for three special shows throughout the month of May. The Bellmore Players, a musical group affiliated with Congregation Beth Ohr, will hold a series of cabarets to raise funds for CBO’s Hebrew school.
There will three shows at the CBO Merrick Annex. They will be held on May 3 at 2:30 p.m., May 13 at 7 p.m. and May 17 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $20 per person.
Event Producer Ira Levy is one of the founding members of the Bellmore Players. 26 years ago, he and other local artists assembled to share their passion for performance while supporting local causes.
“I personally love music,” Levy said. “We’re doing this first and foremost to raise money to support the community, and, of course, to have fun… The fundrais-
ing angle is for the kids in the Hebrew school you know, in the school to provide more resources and tools for learning.”
“The temple does one of these cabarets every year, and this is my first year with them,” said Music Director Bruce Bider. “I was most eager to come aboard… It’s just a general treasure trove of popular songs ranging, oh my goodness, ranging from operetta to Carole King and Billy Joel, with a lot of Broadway in between.”
Melissa Berman, a Bellmore resident and employee at the Herald, will sing at the cabaret.
“I’ve been doing theater a little over 20 years… I heard about the cabaret run by Ira Levy, and I went out, I auditioned and joined,” she explained. “It’s always a lot of fun because you get to pick what song you want to sing and bring your own life and flair into it.”
The Bellmore Players were a special opportunity to pursue artistic growth and make new friends within the
neighborhood.
“My experience has been really nice,” Berman said. “It’s genuinely a place where people uplift each other… You’re coming together for your love and passion of theater, of singing, of Broadway and wanting to showcase your talents and having fun while doing so.”
The show offers many attractions, including a rendition of “No Business Like Show Business” from Annie Get Your Gun, which took Broadway by storm in about 80 years ago.
The cabaret also features ballads, dramatic pieces and instrumentals of all kinds for all ages.
For more information, contact Ira Levy at (516) 6474467.
Earlier this school year, Yam earned a Gold Key in the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards for her piece “Congratulations,” and a Silver Key for her self-portrait, “Flickers.”
Courtesy of the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District. John F. Kennedy High School student Tiffany Yam’s artwork debuted in late March at the opening of Long Island’s Best: Young Artists at The Heckscher Museum of Art.
Melissa Berman/Herald
The Bellmore Players are preparing to perform for three days throughout the month of May, with ticket proceeds going towards Congregation Beth Ohr’s Hebrew School.
Questions we’ve been asked...
Is there a fee charged for making funeral pre-arrangements?
There is absolutely no fee or other charge in New York State when you make “pre-arrangements”. Moreover when you pre-fund those arrangements through the Pre-Plan Trust there is no additional expense in establishing the trust account. A trust account that remains under your control and your funds are FDIC insured.
No commission, no set-up fees, no extra expenses. Just accurate, helpful information, and a plan that conforms to all New York State Regulations and SSI-Medicaid regulations as well. An enhanced rate of interest on the Pre-Plan Trust enables us to guarantee the funeral home costs when a complete funeral is arranged and paid for.
If you would like to discuss these issues, call us and we’ll arrange to have one of our licensed funeral director professionals meet with you and answer your questions.
You’ll receive clear answers, an itemized list of the costs, and some peace of mind.
Leo
F.
KEARNS, Inc. Funeral Directors
Thomas L. Kearns, Patrick J. Kearns, Paul C. Kearns-Stanley (516) 794-0500 or 1-800-640-9500 (NYS)
445 East Meadow Ave., East Meadow (across from the East Meadow Post Office) www.LEOFKEARNS.com
Long Island child protection expands
EAC Network last week became Long Island’s lead agency for child protection services with the opening of the Nassau County Child Advocacy Center in Bethpage, expanding its coordinated response to child abuse, sexual exploitation and trafficking across Nassau and Suffolk counties.
An Estate Plan is More Than it Appears
An estate plan consists of a set of documents for older adults most often consisting of a trust, power of attorney, health care proxy and other supporting documents providing certain legal, financial and health instructions. Most people, and even many attorneys, consider the tangible documents to be the plan, the exchange of which, for payment, constitutes the completion of the transaction.
In our view, it is the “relationship” between the client and the law firm, intangible though it may be, that is of greater value. Only the relationship can provide the benefits needed to fully effectuate the plan. First among the intangibles is the peace of mind which the client is seeking in creating an estate plan in the first place. This requires an inquiry into the capabilities and sensibilities of each family member. The substitute decision-making that will be entrusted to others demands nothing less. As to the passing of assets, we are as concerned with the emotional legacy, as with the financial legacy, the client will leave to those loved ones who survive them.
Secondly, for any estate plan to be effective,
care and attention not to mention experience, in funding the plan -- in other words getting the assets either into the trust or left to the trust as beneficiary -- are essential. The extraordinary level of care and knowledge needed to properly fund a trust is, in our experience, often found lacking. You cannot see it, but it is invaluable.
Third, of what benefit is a plan that is inorganic, in other words not subject to change. Some mechanism for the plan to be adjusted as changes in personal circumstances and in the law occur is essential. An estate plan must be designed with a review process so that it works when needed, often decades after it was first conceived.
As a relationship-based, rather than a transaction-based firm, Ettinger Law Firm has developed processes such as not charging for emails and phone calls and providing a free review every three years to provide the safety and security clients are looking for. Together with our proprietary publications and videos, and weekly client newsletter, these features allow our clients to live out the firm’s motto, “Protecting Your Future”.
The ribbon-cutting at 15 Grumman Road West, Suite 1000, included Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, District Attorney Anne Donnelly, NYS Office of Children and Family Services officials.
EAC Network already operates the Suffolk County Child Advocacy Center; with the Nassau location, it now oversees child advocacy centers in both counties.
“Child abuse and sex trafficking don’t stop at county lines, and neither do we,” EAC Network President and Chief Executive Officer Neela Mukherjee Lockel said. “With our Child Advocacy Centers now in both Nassau and Suffolk, the organization is the first in Long Island’s history to offer a unified, island-wide response to child exploitation.”
According to Lockel, the Nassau center has already received nearly 200 referrals for suspected physical or sexual abuse of minors in its first three months.
The Nassau County Child Advocacy Center will operate two main programs under EAC Network’s leadership: forensic interviews, medical evaluations and mental health support for abused children in a child-friendly setting, and the Safe Harbour program for minors under 18 who are victims of sex trafficking and exploi-
tation, offering advocacy and comprehensive services.
“Nassau County is committed to ensuring every child is safe, protected, and supported,” Blakeman said. “By taking the helm of the Child Advocacy Center, they are strengthening our county’s ability to respond swiftly and compassionately to our most vulnerable residents.”
Donnelly called the center “a cornerstone of how we protect children and hold offenders accountable,” noting that the partnership between law enforcement, prosecutors and victim advocates helps ensure trauma-informed care while cases are investigated.
EAC Network works alongside Nassau and Suffolk police, both district attorneys’ offices, the FBI, child protective services, hospitals and mental health providers.
A former child advocacy center client, identified only as Julianna, spoke at the ceremony about the center’s role in her recovery from abuse, calling it “a place where I could begin to rebuild myself.”
EAC Network officials said the new Nassau center is intended to ensure that children facing abuse or exploitation receive coordinated care, advocacy and support closer to home.
—Jordan Vallone
Courtesy EAC Network
EAC Network opened the Nassau County Child Advocacy Center in Bethpage, expanding its coordinated response to child abuse, sexual exploitation and trafficking in Nassau and Suffolk Counties.
Thomas L. Kearns
DEVIN PACCIONE
WANTAGH Senior LACROSSE
A DYNAMIC THREE-SPORT athlete, Paccione last spring helped lead Wantagh to Nassau and Long Island Class C lacrosse championships and earned All-America honors. He followed that up this fall as a major contributor to the Warriors’ county football title. This spring, the University of Villanova bound attacker was leading Nassau County in points with 72 (26 goals and 46 assists) as of April 28. He has over 300 career points.
games to watch
Thursday, April 30
Baseball: Plainedge at Wantagh 4:30 p.m.
Baseball: Lynbrook at V.S. North 5 p.m.
Softball: East Meadow at Clarke 5 p.m.
Boys Lacrosse: Elmont at Freeport 5 p.m.
Girls Lacrosse: Massapequa at South Side 5 p.m.
Flag Football: Freeport at Bell-Merrick 5 p.m.
Flag Football: East Meadow at V.S. District 5 p.m.
Flag Football: Long Beach at Glen Cove 5 p.m.
Flag Football: Bethpage at Plainedge 5 p.m.
Friday, May 1
Softball: East Rockaway at Freeport 4:15 p.m.
Softball: Syosset at Wantagh 5 p.m.
Softball: V.S. South at V.S. Central 5 p.m.
Softball: Kennedy at Seaford 5 p.m.
Boys Lacrosse: Carey at Mepham 5 p.m.
Baseball: Lawrence at Sewanhaka 5 p.m.
Baseball: South Side at Calhoun 5 p.m.
Baseball: Carey at MacArthur 5 p.m.
Softball: Oceanside at Massapequa 6 p.m.
Saturday, May 2
Softball: South Side at Floral Park 10 a.m.
Flag Football: East Rock. at West Hemp. 10 a.m.
Softball: Baldwin at Hewlett 2 p.m.
Nominate a “Spotlight Athlete”
High School athletes to be featured on the Herald sports page must compete in a spring sport and have earned an AllConference award or higher last season. Please send the following information: Name, School, Grade, Sport and accomplishments to Sports@liherald.com.
HERALD SPORTS
Offensive threats power Kennedy
By NICK MONGIOVI sports@liherald.com
Kennedy girls lacrosse is riding a four-game win streak, with victories against Floral Park, Baldwin, Hewlett and most recently last Friday over Carey.
In those four games, the Cougars have outscored opponents 59-27 and improved to 9-3 overall and 6-1 against Conference III rivals.
Senior Samantha Frank (31 goals), freshman Mia Monzidelis (also 31) and senior Jordana Wohlleben (29 goals, 21 assists) are proven goal scorers. Kennedy coach Mallory Freely says she wants everyone to be a threat.
“I think that’s the key to any really great team,” Freely said. “Losing that ability to say, ‘oh, we have to faceguard one kid;’ it’s a very hard strategy to come up with when you have seven threatening players. Kristen Lichtenstein is a left-handed senior and she just had a game-winner in quadrupel overtime against Floral Park. I’m loving how everyone’s rising to the challenge this year.”
Monzidelis had five goals and three assists in the 16-4 win over Carey. Freshman Lauren Blanshan added two goals and three assists, while Wohlleben put together a sixpoint night on two goals and four assists. Frank put together her fourth, 4+ goal night, with four in this one.
“For the past four seasons, [captains Frank and Wohlleben] have been go-to kids since their freshman year,” Freely said. “They have ener-
gy for days. Jordana especially, she never runs out of steam. They’re defensive and
offensive. They have that hunger to score and they’re great leaders.”
Freshman goalie Daniella Diel has stood on her head throughout the season. The caveat is, she’s never played lacrosse until this spring. Freely coaches her in basketball, and thought, “she’d make a great goalie.”
Diel has taught herself the game by watching college games, and it’s translated well to the field. She recorded her 100th save in the win over Carey, where he stopped five shots. Her 15-save performance in an 8-5 win over New Hyde Park on March 26 is the most saves she’s made in her career.
“The girls worked very hard together from all aspects of field,” Freely said about the win over Carey. “Big defensive-caused turnovers and connecting the dots in transition really made our attack shine. They executed our pregame plan very well.”
Freshman Danielle Donoghue and eighth-grader Bree Frankel each recorded a goal inthe Cougars’ 19-9 win over Hewlett April 21. The young bucks have been contributing as well.
“They all just support and uplift each other,” Freely said. “The other day, before our game, we were like, ‘What do we need to do to make the playoffs?’ Kids never really bring that up to me in both sports until it starts getting closer down the line and the fact they want it and thinking of ways to help us get there is really impactful. I love hearing that they want to go to Conference II and that they want to challenge themselves.”
Kennedy is back in action at East Meadow May 6 at 5 p.m.
Donovan Berthoud/Herald
Lauren Blanshan had a pair of goals and assisted on three others in Kennedy’s 16-4 win over Carey last Friday.
The King Kaye Band goes to Hollywood
By JOSEPH D’ALESSANDRO jdalessandro@liherald.com
Four Bellmore musicians united to take their music to the next level, taking their talent all the way to Hollywood. King Kaye, once the title of an individual artist, is now a five-man-band and one of Long Island’s rising stars.
The four Bellmore members are vocalist Ben Kaye, bassist Matthew Kreuder, drummer Nick Tiongson with Matthew Marzilliano on the keyboard. The fifth member, Ray Bergin, plays the guitar. The band is composed of close friends, most of which go all the way back to elementary school and earlier.
The band travelled across the country to perform at the Viper Room in Hollywood on March 13.
Ben Kaye, 26, started spinning records at 9 years old when he was given a DJ set from a family friend. Since then, he has been fascinated by music and pursued ambitious artistic projects that inspire and innovate. Following his initial success as an independent artist, Kaye was driven to share the art form with his closest friends.
“I got all my best friends from childhood — I wouldn’t have wanted anybody else to be my band,” he said. “For a while I was performing solo, doing my own thing and with electronic music. Something came over me… even though I work in a recording studio and I have all these incredible instrumentalists, I also think my best friends are too… We didn’t even have to like practice to tap into the energy.
“I feel like a part of me was performing solo out of a place of fear,” he continued. “Being able to trust my best friends, how well they received it and adapted an art that’s so personal to me has really opened my eyes to the beauty of collaboration… I hope this is something that
we continue doing forever.”
The band performed at the Berlin dive bar in New York City on Feb. 11, where a fateful encounter would send them across the country a month later.
“The turnout was so incredible,” Kaye said. “We actually got an offer to perform at the Viper Room in Hollywood, like, the most famous venue in California. And when I told all the guys that we were like little boys again, jumping up, getting excited.”
Johnson has played music with friends since high school, including membership in other bands, with King
Kaye reaching the highest.
“Ben’s trying to really do something with this music, so that’s what drew me in,” he said.
The style of King Kaye’s music is consistent with other works under the artist name.
“You get a wide mix of things, but you can say it’s that techno sound that makes you want to dance, but also has some trippy sounds in it, and we kind of took that music and converted it into something that we can play live at a club or a bar,” Johnson said.
Performing at the Viper Room was an incredible achievement; Johnson keeps a broad perspective, remembering how the story began.
“Me and my buddies, even though we’ve been playing music together since high school, we kind of went our separate ways in college and whatnot,” he explained. “Covid brought us back together. We said let’s set up in the garage and see what we make… Now we’re traveling to California to play gigs.
“If you’re reading this and you have a thought like, hey, I strum guitar, I sing, or I want to get into it… You never know what can happen if you don’t put yourself out there,” he said.
Inside the studio, the band members’ practice sessions combine the clear pursuit of goals with trust and intuition.
“It’s not always easy to get five dudes together, but we find a day,” Marzilliano said. “We get together and we get our set list, and then we talk, what do we want to work on? We go through each song multiple times until we’re like, okay, we feel real good about that. Even if there’s some more tweaking we got to do next week, we get back to it.”
For more information about King Kaye and upcoming releases, visit KingKaye.com.
Courtesy Ben Kaye
The King Kaye band used to only be a single artist, Ben Kaye, but they still pursue the same musical goals: electronic music with a soul.
Merrick Kids Fest draws families for 29th year
The 29th Annual Merrick Chamber of Commerce Spring Kids Festival took place April 24–26 at the Merrick Train Station, drawing families from across the community for a lively weekend of springtime fun.
Kids Fest is a beloved annual event for the chamber, and whether people were coming out to shop, listen to live entertainment, watch shows — or of course, hop on carnival rides — there was something for everyone, making the weekend a memorable success.
Admission was free, with ride-all-day wristbands available for purchase.
— Hernesto Galdamez
Tim Baker/Herald photos
Anthony, Valyn and Lexi Sherman take in the sights and sounds of the Merrick Kids Fest, enjoying a day of rides, games and family fun at the Merrick Train Station.
Matthew Lamberto and his father, Joey, share a thrill on the rides at the Merrick Kids Fest, making the most of a fun-filled weekend.
Arielle Marc gives her stamp of approval to the carnival games at the Merrick Kids Fest, enjoying a playful stop among the weekend’s attractions.
Nearing 30 years, the Merrick Kids Fest draws families from across the community.
A student- and family-suggested book selection helped spark conversations about perseverance and individuality during the April principal’s readaloud at Saw Mill Elementary School in the North Bellmore School District.
“Aaron Slater, Illustrator” by Andrea Beaty was chosen for the monthly program, which is hosted by Principal Jeffrey Rosof and Assistant Principal Daniel Madden and focuses on character education themes. The book tells the story of a boy with dyslexia who struggles with reading but ultimately discovers his voice through his artistic talent.
Rosof and Madden read the book during two assemblies held April 17, fol-
lowed by discussions with students about its themes. Students were also encouraged to reflect on their own personal strengths.
“This story beautifully reflects our shared commitment to inclusion, perseverance and celebrating the unique strengths within each individual,” Madden said. “Through Aaron’s journey, students are reminded that challenges can be pathways to creativity, confidence and self-expression. These values deeply align with our mission to inspire all learners to grow with courage and integrity.”
The selection came after families and students were invited to submit book
suggestions following Pick a Reading Partner week in March, a PTA-supported initiative. A district survey drew strong participation, with “Aaron Slater, Illustrator” emerging as a popular choice.
Madden said the read-aloud also served as a lead-in to the school’s upcoming Career Day, which will be held in partnership with the PTA. He noted that the story underscores how talents and passions can shape future opportunities and reinforce the idea that there are many paths to making a meaningful impact.
— Hernesto Galdamez
17, which focuses on character education. There were assemblies for grades K-3 and 4-6.
Saw Mill Road Elementary School hosted its monthly principal’s read aloud on April
Courtesy of the North Bellmore School District
Principal Jeffrey Rosof, left, and Assistant Principal Daniel Madden were joined by students following the reading of this month’s book, “Aaron Slater, Illustrator.”
MERRICK HERALD — April 30, 2026
Calhoun students place top 6 nationally in competition
Four Sanford H. Calhoun High School students earned national recognition for their financial acumen after competing in a major youth business convention in New York City.
Alexa Addonizio, Jack Gunn, Sanjay Singh and Olivia Tristaino, members of the school’s Virtual Enterprise program, were among the top performers at the Youth Business Summit, held April 22 at the Javits Center. The event brought together hundreds of student-run companies from across the United States and abroad to compete and showcase their work.
The Calhoun team advanced to the National Finance Competition with a detailed financial strategy for SunBeat, a student-created business centered on tech-enhanced outdoor products. Their proposal ultimately placed them in the top six in the nation and earned them the top spot among New York teams.
The competition required students to make realistic business decisions, including how to secure funding, manage expenses and project long-term profitability. Teams were evaluated on how well their plans supported sustainable growth.
SunBeat’s concept combines recreational and environmental elements, offering products designed for outdoor use while incorporating renewable energy features. The students also aligned their project with local environmental efforts through a partnership supporting cleanup initiatives in Long Beach.
The team is part of Calhoun’s Virtual Enterprise program, which simulates real-world business operations and prepares students for careers in finance, marketing and entrepreneurship. Business teacher Jenna Tumminelli advised the group.
More than 200 exhibitors representing multiple states and countries participated in this year’s summit, highlighting the global reach of the program and the increasing emphasis on hands-on business education.
— Hernesto Galdamez
Courtesy of the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District.
Sanjay Singh, Olivia Tristaino, Alexa Addonizio and Jack Gunn represented Calhoun High School at the Youth Business Summit.
Chocolate Expo draws sweet crowd to Coliseum
The Chocolate Expo drew a large crowd to Nassau Coliseum in Uniondale on March 22, with attendees filling the venue throughout the day.
The one-day event featured more than 80 vendors offering chocolate, baked goods and specialty foods. While chocolate was the focus, many vendors also sold nonchocolate items such as cheeses, matcha tea, honey, and beverages.
The expo included live demonstrations, interactive presentations, and familyfriendly activities. A children’s area featured face painting, balloon twisting and balloon art by Robbie Furman, who created hats and animal shapes for attendees.
A balloon sculpture of a horse and carriage was on display near the entrance highlighted television show “Little House on the Prairie.” The Western themed show ran nine seasons from 1974.
Television personalities, Dean Butler, Patrick Labyorteaux and Todd Bridges from “Little House on the Prairie” were the celebrity guests and took photos with visitors. During the event there was a special panel with moderator asking the cast questions. The panel drew a large audience.
The Chocolate Expo, which has been held since 2012, is part of a recurring series that brings food vendors and attendees together at venues across the region.
— Stacy Driks
event. During their time there, they spoke during a panel discussion about their time on “Little House on the Prairie,” which aired from 1974 to 1983. Bridges also starred in “Diff’rent Strokes.”
Tim Baker/Herald photos
Dean Butler, left, Patrick Labyorteaux and Todd Bridges were celebrity guests at the
Heralds capture 11 awards in N.Y. press contest
By JEFFREY BESSEN jbessen@liherald.com
Herald Community Media received 11 awards at the New York Press Association’s 2025 Better Newspaper Contest. The awards were presented at the organization’s spring convention in Saratoga Springs on April 23-24.
Creative Designer Jeffrey Negrin took first place for Best Special Section Cover, Division I, for the Herald’s basketball section. Karen Millindorf was the photographer.
“The layout is clean and bold,” the judges said. “Good use of the isolated subjects placed center frame and the text is well balanced. Overall solid.”
Negrin also placed second in the same category for a Rockville Centre cover. “The mostly monotone color scheme is well complimented to [the] line art doodle graphic,” the judges said. “The lightness of the graphic placed center frame is well balanced with the heaviness of the text at both the top and bottom of the layout.”
“It’s always an honor to be recognized by our peers,” Herald Community Media publisher Stuart Richner said. “We’re proud to continue telling the stories of our communities, and I congratulate our team on this well-deserved recognition. Ultimately, our greatest reward is delivering comprehensive local news to our readers each week.”
Vice President of Sales Rhonda Glickman, Special Sections Editor Karen Bloom and Negrin combined their talents and captured second place for Best Special Section in Advertising, Division I.
“An eye-catching and meaningful special section,” the judges said. “The editorial is local, informative and well writ-
ten. The ads complement the section and align with the section’s intent.”
Negrin and Advertising Director Ellen Reynolds partnered to grab second and third place in the Best Multi-Advertiser Pages.
“This piece does a nice job of capturing the spirit of this campaign and community,” the judges said of the secondplace submission, “combining the multiple advertisers into a harmonious layout. A subtle mix of patterns and color makes a strong impression. Well done.”
Of the third-place entry, the judges said, “A fun piece that visually captures the reader while being based on a strong concept that is a service to the community. The art and topography are appropriate for the theme and lend themselves to the overall mood of the piece. Nice job.”
“Good journalism doesn’t chase applause — it chases accountability,” COO Brad Harmon said. “That’s what makes me proud and reminds me why the work we do matters.”
On the editorial side, Copy Editor Jim Harmon and Production Designer Yolanda Rios received second-place recognition for editorial pages that appeared in all 24 weekly editions of the Heralds. “This was a close second,” the judges said. “The editorial writer is excellent.”
Staying on the editorial page, Managing Editor Jeffrey Bessen, Harmon and Zack Richner combined their efforts to take third place in Editorials, Division 1.
“Three editorials delve into some of the troubling dangers of our time — unaddressed impacts of long Covid; Meta abandoning moderators and the implications on civility and democracy; and the harshness of the housing crisis,” the judges said. “All are told with
perspective and expertise.”
Multiple sports stories that appeared in the Massapequa Herald Post were part of the package that took second place in Sports Coverage, Division 1.
“Greatly enjoyed the range of stories covered in this issue, from the longtime Hofstra soccer coach to the Ryder Cup volunteers,” the judges said. “Well written and attractive layout, easy to read.”
It takes a great team to bring back awards from NYPA — we have the best!” Glickman said. “From finance to sales to editorial, production, press, circulation etc. Together we win!”
For Online Breaking News, Will Sheeline, editor of the Oyster Bay and Sea Cliff/Glen Head Heralds, and past reporter Luke Feeney placed second for their story “Pirate Booty founder Robert Ehrlich addresses attempt to seize control of Village of Sea Cliff.”
The judges said: “The reporters not only identified Robert Erhlich first as the person behind the attempted power grab, but also landed the first on-therecord, exclusive interview with him and posted it online before state, national and international outlets followed. Excellent use of community trust and source relationships to turn a chaotic, somewhat bizarre local power struggle into a clear, timely story.”
Sports Editor Tony Bellissimo and Negrin earned third place for Special Sections/Niche Publications for the Herald’s lacrosse book.
“Very well organized, and comprehensive,” the judges said. “Visually appealing and something for everyone who likes Lacrosse.”
Sheeline also took third place in the Environment Story category for his “Keeping the ‘oyster’ in Oyster Bay” story.
The Herald’s Basketball section was a winner in the category Best Special Section Cover.
“I kept reminding myself that this is a reporter’s award and not an award for which environmental project was the coolest,” the judges said. “And this project was cool! I’ve decided not to hold it against the reporter, however, because the reporter has done an excellent job of making me feel invested in these people and this place and their oysters without getting mawkish or too purple in the prose.”
For the Better News Contest, 150 newspapers submitted 2,732 entries and competed in 67 categories, and a total of 389 awards were presented. The Michigan Press Association judged the contest submissions in January.
Courtesy NYPA
At the New York Press Association’s spring convention in Saratoga Springs, members of Herald Community Media’s editorial team with President and CEO Stuart Richner, far left.
Herald file photo
Bill targets harassment at houses of worship
By ROKSANA AMID ramid@liherald.com
Calls to protect religious institutions from harassment and intimidation took center stage last Friday morning at the Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center of Nassau County.
There, U.S. Rep. Tom Suozzi unveiled the bipartisan Safeguarding Access to Congregations and Religious Establishments from Disruption Act, known as the SACRED Act, legislation Suozzi said would address growing concerns among his constituents about safety at houses of worship.
“There’s too much hate in our country right now,” Suozzi said. “A lot of people are being intimidated as they enter into their religious institution to practice their faith.”
The bill, co-led by Rep. Max Miller, a Republican from Ohio, would make it a federal crime to intentionally intimidate, obstruct or harass individuals within 100 feet of a place of worship, including blocking their path or approaching within 8 feet with the intent to harass.
Suozzi said the measure “ensures that people can access their place of worship safely and without obstruction, while still preserving First Amendment protections for peaceful expression.” He added that it draws “a clear line: Intimidation and threats have no place in our communities.”
“We at the Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center understand religious persecution,” Alan Mindel, the center’s chairman, said, “and so we are so proud to stand with Congressman Suozzi in protecting the rights of all Americans, regardless of where they pray.”
Leaders of several national advocacy and faith organizations attended the event, including represen-
Community leaders, elected officials and faith advocates gathered at the Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center of Nassau County to highlight efforts to protect religious institutions and ensure safe access to places of worship.
tatives of the Anti-Defamation League, the American Jewish Committee, Hadassah and the Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America.
According to the Anti-Defamation League, antisemitism has reached historic levels, with 9,354 incidents recorded in 2024, underscoring concerns about the safety of those attending religious services.
“Religious freedom thrives where respect prevails,” Azhar Azeez, CEO of the Islamic Society of North America, said. “Let every place of worship be a sanctuary free from intimidation, obstruction or harassment so all people may practice their faith in peace, dignity and safety within every sacred space.”
The proposal has also drawn political criticism.
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Mike LiPetri, who is challenging Suozzi for his 3rd Congressional District seat in November, said he believed the congressman had not been sufficiently vocal on the issue in the past.
“Now in an election year he wants to take action?” LiPetri wrote in a statement to the Herald. “We’re not buying it.”
Rep. Laura Gillen, who was not in attendance, emphasized the need for additional protections.
“In the wake of rising hate crimes in our own backyard, we must safeguard our houses of worship and ensure every Long Islander has the freedom to gather without fear of violence,” Gillen wrote. “Establishing buffer zones is a step in the right direction.”
Undergraduate Open House
Saturday, May 2 11:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. Garden City Campus
Register today to reserve your spot! Visit adelphi.edu/ heraldoh26 or scan this code.
Roksana Amid/Herald
Religious leaders challenge local theater
By HERNESTO GALDAMEZ hgaldamez@liherald.com
Bellmore Movies and Showplace is facing pushback from local religious leaders over its screening of the film “Palestine 36,” with members of the Merrick-Bellmore Board of Rabbis calling the movie historically misleading and harmful.
The film was shown at the theater on April 22 and 23, according to the theater’s website.
According to IMDb, “Palestine 36” is a historical drama set during the 1936 Arab Revolt in British-controlled Palestine, following events surrounding rising tensions and conflict in the region.
The film is often discussed alongside Oren Kessler’s nonfiction book “Palestine 1936: The Great Revolt and the Roots of the Middle East Conflict,” which won the 2024 Sami Rohr Prize for Jewish Literature. While the book is a historical account of the Arab Revolt and its broader political context, the film is a 2025 historical drama directed by Annemarie Jacir that centers on the Palestinian experience of the uprising. Kessler has said there is no connection between his book and the film, describing “Palestine 36” as a “fictional rewrite” rather than a strict historical adaptation.
In a letter sent April 21, the rabbis wrote they were “deeply troubled” by the decision to screen the film, describing it as “a work of serious historical distortion that renders Jewish people as faceless villains and erases their humanity from the record.”
Rabbi Ira Ebbin of Congregation Ohav Sholom said his concerns — and those of fellow rabbis — are based on reviews of the film and criticism from historians.
“I didn’t see the film — I only read the reviews,” Ebbin said. “But based on what I read, including from the author of the original book, the movie does not represent
what he wrote and does not reflect historical facts.”
The letter echoes those concerns, stating that “the erasure of Jewish voices from the film is stark,” and noting that “nearly 400,000 Jews… [are] rendered entirely invisible.”
Rabbi Josh Dorsch of Merrick Jewish Centre said the concerns come at a particularly sensitive time for the community.
“At this moment in time, we are experiencing a rise in antisemitism. Many Jews are feeling particularly vulnerable and at times unsafe,” Dorsch said. “As a community, we have found the theater to be a warm and welcoming environment. We have hosted children’s events over Passover, and we screened a Holocaust documentary for the community in commemoration of Holocaust Remembrance Day.”
He added that the film, as described in the rabbis’ letter, contributes to harmful narratives.
“As was mentioned in the letter, this particular film
presents distortions of historical events, and it plays into a narrative which is not just a distortion of the truth, but plays into antisemitic tropes,” Dorsch said. “Choosing to show this film is hurtful and insensitive to members of our community. We would encourage conversations and dialogue to discuss our perspective and why we believe screening this film is insensitive and hurtful.”
The rabbis also tied their concerns to broader societal issues, writing that “in the current climate of rising antisemitism, the screening of such a film in our community carries consequences that cannot be ignored.”
Ebbin said the reaction among local rabbis was unified.
“When I spoke to the other rabbis in the community, they completely agreed with everything the letter said,” he noted. “We’re seeing a world where antisemitism is very prevalent, and something like this promotes hatred, lies and propaganda.”
While acknowledging the importance of free expression, both the letter and Ebbin emphasized that their request is rooted in concern for the local community.
“We do not write as opponents of free expression,” the letter states. “We write because this film… rewrites the past in service of a contemporary political agenda.”
“This is not an issue of free speech,” Ebbin added. “We recognize that. But we believe this is promoting antisemitic propaganda, and as neighbors in a small community, we’re asking them not to show it.”
The letter concludes with a direct appeal to theater management, stating, “We ask you — as neighbors and as members of this community — to reconsider this screening.”
Representatives for Bellmore Movies and Showplace did not respond to requests for comment.
“We would like to hear from them,” Ebbin said. “At the very least, a response would be appreciated.”
Joseph Dalessandro/Herald
Local leaders raised concern over the screening of ‘Palestine 36.’
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STEPPING OUT
You don’t have to be a kid to love bubbles. Step into the museum’s bubble playroom and see why bubbles are fun for any age.
No kids allowed
By Abbey Salvemini
For many folks a trip to the Long Island Children’s Museum isn’t just a childhood outing, it’s a shared community memory. Now, those of us “big kids” who grew up visiting here will have a chance to step back inside but this time as grown-ups.
Relive the wonder of childhood at the museum’s inaugural “Adults Only Nostalgia Night” on May 6. Open to guests ages 23 and up, this after-hours event (starting at 6:30 p.m.) offers a lively, playful reimagining of a beloved local destination — welcoming visitors to explore familiar exhibits in a whole new light, long after the kids have gone home.
“This has been something that’s been talked about for years,” Communications Coordinator Stephanie Silver says. “We have so many people who came here as kids and are now bringing their own children or even grandchildren. There’s always been this desire to come back and experience it again for themselves.”
That idea recently gained momentum online after a nostalgic TikTok post comparing the museum’s former Stewart Avenue location with its current home in Garden City went viral, creating a wave of former visitors in the comments reminiscing and sharing memories.
The result is an occasion designed to feel equal parts reunion and night out.
For three hours, the museum’s galleries are open exclusively to adults, giving guests the rare opportunity to explore exhibits at their own pace. From the popular bubble station to newer installations, visitors can revisit old favorites or discover exhibits they may have missed.
“It’s really about giving people the freedom to explore,” Silver explains. “They can go wherever they want, spend as much time as they want, and just enjoy it without any responsibilities.”
Beyond exploring the exhibits, the evening comes
Children’s Museum turns childhood memories into an adults-only night out
alive with a DJ spinning crowd pleasing hits from across the decades, inviting guests to hit the dance floor or simply enjoy the music. Classic games add a touch of friendly competition, while photo stations capture the fun along the way. Together, these elements transform the museum into a vibrant, social “playground,” a striking departure from its usual daytime pace. The result is a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere where nostalgia, play and connection come together for a memorable night. Light bites and refreshments are available; admission includes two drink tickets for beer and wine. Organizers aim to create a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere where everyone can mingle, unwind, and rediscover a beloved space in an entirely new way — all without straying far from home.
Guests are also invited to take part in hands-on memory-making activities throughout the evening. Design your own I Heart LICM friendship bracelet to keep as a personal memento, or contribute to the Nostalgia Wall by posting photos and sharing stories from past visits. Over the course of the night, the growing display will reflect decades of community connection — ranging from childhood snapshots to treasured, multigenerational memories — woven together into a heartfelt collective tribute.
For Silver, that piece hits close to home.
• Wednesday, May 6, 6:30-9 p.m.
• Tickets are $45 per person, $40 members, with limited availability; Advance registration and valid ID required
• Visit the events calendar at licm.org for tickets and additional information
• 11 Davis Ave., Garden City
“I grew up coming here,” she says. “My own photos will be up there. It’s special to see how many people have that same connection.”
While designed to be lighthearted and fun, the museum’s educational spirit remains an underlying thread throughout. Exhibits originally created to spark curiosity in children take on a new dimension for adults, offering a fresh perspective that invites reflection, rediscovery and a touch of wonder in a familiar setting.
“That’s actually the easiest part,” Silver adds. “Everything here is already grounded in education. The nostalgia just comes naturally.”
If the evening proves successful (as expected), museum leadership aims to make this a recurring offering and potentially expand it in future seasons, building on what’s anticipated to be strong community enthusiasm.
“We’d love to make this a reoccurring event,” Silver says, enthusiastically. “But we also want to hear from visitors … what they enjoy, what they want to see. This is really about the community.”
Nostalgia Night will offer something that’s familiar yet new: a chance to revisit a childhood staple, reconnect with friends or neighbors and see a well-known local institution in a completely different light.
“We want people to walk away feeling reconnected, not just to the museum, but to that sense of joy and creativity,” Silver adds. “Play is just as powerful for us as adults as it is for the children.”
And for those who recall spending rainy afternoons or birthday parties inside the museum’s walls, this might feel somewhat like coming home — only this time, with music, companions and no curfew.
George Thorogood and The Destroyers
For the past five-plus decades, over 8,000 live shows and more than 15 million albums sold, George Thorogood and The Destroyers have been “The All-American Rock & Roll Party Band” (Goldmine Magazine). In celebration of their 53rd year of “playing rock ‘n roll hot enough to melt the polar icecaps and flood the world’s major population centers” (Rolling Stone), the group continues The Baddest Show On Earth Tour — a stage-shaking, roof-raising, guitar-snarling blast. For an artist whose music honors the blues, rock and country legends of the past, Thorogood’s forward momentum is now stronger than ever. And along with longtime Destroyers Jeff Simon (drums), Bill Blough (bass), Jim Suhler (guitar) and Buddy Leach (saxophone), they continue “to slap a custom flame paint job onto those classic sounds” (Blues Blast Magazine) like never before.
Saturday, May 2, 8 p.m. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.
Til Death Do Us Part … You First!
Love, regret and second chances take center stage in a fast-paced, laugh-out-loud solo show directed by Broadway veteran Chazz Palminteri. Written and performed by comedian Peter Fogel, the 90-minute multimedia performance blends sharp humor with heartfelt reflection on the realities of modern relationships. At the heart of the story is Fogel himself — an eternal bachelor blindsided by a Valentine’s Day breakup that forces him to confront more than just heartbreak. As he wrestles with questions of love, timing and personal growth, he’s guided by his own conscience, voiced by Palminteri, in a clever theatrical device that adds both wit and depth. What follows is a whirlwind of storytelling as Fogel transforms into more than a dozen characters, Saturday, May 2, 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $40. Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. Tickets available at landmarkonmainstreet.org.
Photos courtesy LICM
Building boom! ‘Big kids’ are sure to have fun unleashing their creativity by building with KEVA planks
Delve into Long Island’s maritime history and connections at the Saltwater Stories exhibit.
Your Neighborhood CALENDAR
MAY
Friday Night Car Show
1
Drop by to check out hundreds of antique and custom cars, every Friday, through Oct. 30.
• Where: Bellmore LIRR parking lot on Broadway between Bellmore and Bedford avenues.
• Time: 5-10 p.m.
Family theater
Long Island Children’s Museum stages “Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical!,” back at the museum by popular demand. With a script written by Mo Willems, the creator of the award-winning “Pigeon” picture books, and featuring music by Deborah Wicks La Puma (Elephant & Piggie’s We Are in a Play!), this show is even more fun than staying up late and having a hot dog party! It’s not easy being the Pigeon since you never get to do anything. But when the Bus Driver has a crisis that threatens to make her passengers (gasp!) late, maybe that wily bird can finally do something. Featuring an innovative mix of songs, and feathers, Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical! is sure to get everyone’s wings flapping. $11 with museum admission ($9 members), $15 theater only.
• Where: 11 Davis Ave., Garden City
• Time: 10:15 a.m. and noon.; also May 2 and May 6-7
• Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800
Long Island Marathon Weekend
Get ready for a weekend of running, celebrations and more as the Jovia Financial Credit Union Long Island Marathon returns to Eisenhower Park through May 3.
• Where: Eisenhower Park , East Meadow
• When: Races on Friday, Saturday and Sunday at various times
• Contact: RunLongIlsnadMarathon.com
MAY
2
Bring the kids to Old Westbury Gardens for a Storybook Stroll. Little listeners are invited to participate in a guided stroll through the Gardens, with a reading of Isabel Sanchez Vergara’s “Little People Big Dreams.” Along the way, discover nature’s wonders, in the formal gardens. The tour ends at the Thatched Cottage with a story and hands-on craft for each child to take home.
• Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury
• Time: 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Ben Folds & A Piano
MAY 8
and guest artists Janey Choi, violin; and Michael Roth, viola, performs a captivating program including works by Ravel, Mendelssohn, and Dvorák
• Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury
• Time: 8 p.m.
• Contact: oldwestburygardens. org or call (516) 333-0048
MAY
13
Teen Switch Tweens/teens in grades 6-12 are welcome to stop by Bellmore Library to play Super Smash Bros. Library controllers are provided.
• Where: 2288 Bedford Ave.
• Time: 3:45-4:30 p.m.
• Contact: bellmorelibrary.org
MAY
15
Tote Bag Decorating Decorate tote bags at Bellmore Library to be given out to the adult summer reading club participants.
• Where: 2288 Bedford Ave.
• Where: Tilles Center, LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville
• Time: 8 p.m.
Ben Folds, widely regarded as one of the major music influencers of his generation. brings his latest tour to the Tilles Center, joined by multi-talented actress-singer- composer Lindsey Kraft. Known for pushing genre boundaries, Folds first rose to prominence with Ben Folds Five before launching a wide-ranging solo career that blends sharp lyricism, piano-driven melodies and orchestral ambition. Over the years, he has released multiple solo albums alongside collaborative projects, earning an Emmy nomination and a devoted global following. His most recent pop album (2023) drew critical praise and played to sold-out audiences, followed by a holiday release in 2024. Folds’ recent work also reflects his deep engagement with orchestral music, including a live album featuring a live orchestral performance of his hits recorded just before concluding his eight-year tenure as Artistic Advisor to the National Symphony Orchestra at the Kennedy Center — an appointment that marked a first for the role. Today, he continues to move fluidly between pop tours and performances with leading orchestras worldwide, while also developing new work for film, television and theater. A bestselling author and former podcast host, Folds remains a restlessly creative force — an artist constantly expanding the reach of his music.
• Contact: oldwestburygardens. org or call (516) 333-0048
Old Westbury Gardens’ Regency Romance Weekend
Enjoy two delightful days of romance, revelry, and refinement in true Jane Austen-style at the lush estate. Step onto the grounds, don your finest gowns and cravats, and prepare for a weekend of charm, wit, and elegant amusements. Stroll the gardens, try your hand at lawn games and crafts, enjoy classical melodies, test your Austen knowledge, and admire the finery of fellow guests dressed for the occasion. Between diversions, indulge in sweet treats at the café and discover Regency-inspired treasures in the gift shop. Visit the website for programming details.
• Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury
• Time: Ongoing, through May 3
• Contact: oldwestburygardens. org or call (516) 333-0048
brings the thrill of the Games to fans/ Headlined by Ilia Malinin, the “Quad God” and Olympic Gold Medalist Alysa Liu, Olympic Silver Medalists Madison Chock & Evan Bates, the tour also stars National Champions Isabeau Levito, Amber Glenn, Jason Brown and more. Feel the passion, precision and power of the U.S. National Figure Skating Team — live on the ice.
• Where: 2400 Hempstead Tpke., Elmont
• Time: 4 p.m.
• Contact: ticketmaster.com
Amazing Animal Encounter
Join Long Island Children’s Museum’s animal educator in the Hive Studio in the Feasts for Beasts Gallery to learn what goes into the care of the museum’s “residents.” Meet some of our real-life animals up close.
• Contact: ticketmaster.com or tillescenter.org or (516) 299-3100
• Where: 2616 Martin Ave.
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
MAY
VFW Auxiliary Fundraiser
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Enjoy a variety of scones, teas, sandwiches and desserts. $30, $20 12 and under. Reservations required.
• Where: 2400 Bedford Ave.
• Time: 1-4 p.m.
• Contact: Kathy at (516) 305-3139
Eisenhower Craft Fair
Check out the many craft vendors at Eisenhower Park.
• Time: 3:45-4:45 p.m.
• Contact: bellmorelibrary.org
MAY
28
Live After Five Don’t miss out on Merrick’s Live After Five, back for another year. Merrick Community Civic Association hosts an evening dedicated to supporting local businesses. Participating restaurants and shops offer special promotions for the evening for all customers. Enjoy music at the Gazebo near the LIRR (weather permitting).
• Where: Along Merrick Avenue, from LIRR to Loines Ave, and into the Merrick Mall.
• Time: Beginning at 5 p.m.
• Contact: For the most up to date list of participating businesses, check out @ MerrickLiveAfterFive on Instagram
5 Storybook Stroll
MAY 3
Stars On Ice Celebrate America’s skating superstars! Fresh off their Olympic performances, the 2026 Stars on Ice tour
• Where: Museum Row, Garden City
• Time: 1:30-2 p.m.
• Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800
MAY
North Merrick BOE meets The Board of Education holds its next meeting.
• Where: Eisenhower Park, Field 8
• When: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. also May 10, weather permitting
• Contact: NassauCountyFairs. com
‘The Enchantment of Strings’
Visit Old Westbury Gardens for an evening of chamber music as presents in the intimate and elegant Red Ballroom. Ensemblein-residence Poetica Musica Quartet featuring Eric Wyrick, violin; Eugene Moye, cello;
Having an event?
Items on the Calendar page are listed free of charge. The Herald welcomes listings of upcoming events, community meetings and items of public interest. All submissions should include date, time and location of the event, cost, and a contact name and phone number. Submissions can be emailed to kbloom@ liherald.com.
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Public Notices
LEGAL NOTICE
AVISO DE AUDIENCIA
PÚBLICA
BELLMORE-MERRICK
CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT
CIUDAD DE HEMPSTEAD
CONDADO DE NASSAU, NUEVA YORK
EL AVISO SE HA DADO AQUÍ que la Junta de Educación del BellmoreMerrick Central High School District celebrará una audiencia pública el 6 de mayo de 2026, a las 7:30 p.m. en la Sala de la Junta del Edificio de Administración Central ubicado en la Centro Educative Brookside, 1260 Meadowbrook Road, Merrick, Nueva York, con el propósito de tramitar todos los negocios según lo autorizado por la Ley de Educación, que incluye, entre otros, la discusión de los gastos de fondos y presupuestos, por lo tanto, en relación con la apropriación de fondos necesarios para cubrir los gastos necesarios del Distrito Central de Escuelas Secundarias para el año escolar 2026-2027 y sobre las propuestas que involucran el gasto de fondos o la recaudación de impuestos, en qué momento y en qué lugar todas las personas interesadas en el tema del mismo en relación con el mismo tendrán la oportunidad de ser escuchadas.
Y TAMBIÉN SE DE AVISO que una copia del estado de la cantidad de dinero que se requerirá para el año siguiente con fines escolares (presupuesto escolar) y copias de las propuestas relacionadas con el gasto de dinero y el funcionamiento del sistema escolar para el año siguiente , estará disponible para cualquier contribuyente en el Distrito siete días inmediatamente antes de la audiencia pública, excepto los sábados, domingos o días festivos, en cada escuela en la que se mantenga la escuela durante las horas de 8:00 a.m. y 4:00 p.m.
Y TAMBIÉN SE DE AVISO que un Informe de Exención del Impuesto sobre Bienes Inmuebles, preparado de acuerdo con la Sección 495 de la Ley del Impuesto sobre Bienes Inmuebles, se adjuntará a cualquier presupuesto provisional / preliminar, así como al presupuesto adoptado final del cual formará parte; y se publicarán en el (los) tablón (s) de boletines del Distrito que se mantendrá para
avisos públicos, así como en el sitio web del Distrito
POR ORDEN DE LA JUNTA DE EDUCACIÓN
BELLMORE-MERRICK CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT
PATTIANNE GUCCIONE SECRETARIO DE DISTRITO
El aviso anterior se publicará en los periódicos Herald de Bellmore y Herald de Merrick el Jueves, el 2 de abril de 2026, el 16 de abril de 2023 y el 30 de abril de 2026. 159353
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING OF THE BELLMOREMERRICK CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD COUNTY OF NASSAU, NEW YORK
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Board of Education of the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District will hold a Public Hearing on May 6, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. in the Boardroom of the Central Administration Building located at the Brookside Educational Center, 1260 Meadowbrook Road, Merrick, New York, for the purpose of transacting all business as is authorized by the Education Law, including, but not limited to, discussion of the expenditure of funds and budgeting therefore relative to the appropriation of necessary funds to meet the necessary expenditures of the Central High School District for the school year 2026-2027 and on propositions involving the expenditure of funds or the levy of tax, at which time and which place all persons interested in the subject matter thereof concerning the same will have an opportunity to be heard.
AND NOTICE IS ALSO GIVEN that a copy of the statement of the amount of money which will be required for the ensuing year for school purposes (school budget) and copies of propositions involving expenditure of moneys and the operation of the school system for the ensuing year, will be available to any taxpayer in the District seven days immediately preceding the public hearing except Saturday,
Sunday or holidays, at each schoolhouse in which school is maintained during the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.
AND NOTICE IS ALSO GIVEN that a Real Property Tax Exemption Report, prepared in accordance with Section 495 of the Real Property Tax Law, will be annexed to any tentative/preliminary budget as well as the final adopted budget of which it will form a part; and shall be posted on District Bulletin board(s) maintained for public notices, as well as on the District’s website.
BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION
BELLMORE-MERRICK CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT PATTIANNE GUCCIONE DISTRICT CLERK
The above notice will be published in the Bellmore and Merrick Herald Life newspapers on Thursday, April 2, 2026, April 16, 2026, April 30, 2026 and May 14, 2026. 159351
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF ANNUAL SCHOOL DISTRICT VOTE OF THE BELLMOREMERRICK CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU, NEW YORK
NOTICE IS HEREBY
GIVEN that the annual vote of the qualified voters of the BellmoreMerrick Central High School District, Nassau County, New York, will be held on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at the several polling places designated by the Bellmore, Merrick, North Bellmore, and North Merrick Union Free School Districts, as follows:
BELLMORE UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT, at the Charles A. Reinhard Early Childhood Center, 2750 South St. Marks Avenue, Bellmore, New York between 6:30 a.m. and 9:00 p.m.
MERRICK UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT, at the Merrick District Office-Katherine E. Reif Administration Center, 21 Babylon Road, Merrick, New York, between 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m.
NORTH BELLMORE UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT, at the Newbridge Road School, 1601 Newbridge Road,
North Bellmore, New York, between 6:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m.
NORTH MERRICK UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT, at the North Merrick Public Library, 1691 Meadowbrook Road, North Merrick, New York, between 6:30 a.m. and 9:00 p.m.
For the following purposes:
PROPOSITION NO. 1CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT BUDGET RESOLVED, that the Board of Education of the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, is authorized to expend the sums in the General Fund Appropriate of two hundred ten million, three hundred sixtyfour thousand, one hundred thirty-one dollars ($210,364,131) to be raised through taxation in the several districts included with the Central High School District after first deducting the monies available from state aid and other sources.
PROPOSITION NO. 2 -
CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT
PROJECTS
RESOLVED, that the Board of Education of the Bellmore Merrick Central High School District is hereby authorized to expend $2,500,000 from the Capital Reserve Fund established in May, 2024 for the purpose of performing the following projects; (1) elevator reconstruction; (2) public address and intercom system renovations; (3) masonry renovations; (4) flooring and ceiling renovations; (5) gymnasium partition replacement; (6) sewage ejector system replacement; and (7) HVAC renovations; (8) sidewalk replacements, all at Wellington C. Mepham High School, all of the foregoing to include all labor, materials, equipment, apparatus and incidental costs related thereto. Since the funds to be expended hereunder come from the Capital Reserve Fund approval of this proposition will not require a tax levy upon the real property of the district. This Proposition shall be independent of Proposition No. 1.
PROPOSITION NO. 3 -
CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT CAPITAL
RESERVE FUND
RESOLVED, that pursuant to Education Law Section 3651, the Board of Education of the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District is hereby authorized to establish a Capital Reserve Fund for the purpose of funding the following capital improvement projects: instructional and non-instructional space improvements/ renovations/upgrades, (including but not limited to classroom improvements/ renovations/upgrades and/or additions to existing facilities), auditorium renovations, gymnasium renovations, cafeteria renovations, library/multi media center renovations, exterior renovations/ reconstruction, computer/ technology upgrades, security system upgrades, plumbing improvements/ renovations/upgrades, electrical improvements/ renovations/upgrades, HVAC improvements/ renovations/upgrades, energy efficiency improvements/ renovation/upgrades, including the installation of solar power, improvements/ renovations/upgrades, fuel tank replacement, renovations required for compliance with ADA requirements, vocational and career preparation renovations, portable classroom replacement and/or purchase, roof/gutter/ leader replacement, window replacement, structural renovations including masonry, brick and steel replacement, paving and concrete replacement, interior and exterior door/ entry ways replacement (including hardware), toilet room renovations, lighting upgrades, ceiling replacement, floor replacement, wall replacement, boiler replacements, elevators, carpentry renovations, purchase of buildings/ land, site renovations/ reconstruction including track resurfacing and turf field replacement, press box/dugout/ field house improvements/ renovations/ upgrades, bleacher improvements/ renovations/ upgrades, upgrades of signs, athletic field renovations/ reconstruction, tennis court renovations, playground renovations, lockers/locker room renovations, public address/clock system replacement, sound system upgrades,
telephone system upgrades, hazardous material remediation, storage space renovations, furnishings and equipment, including the purchase of vehicles.
The maximum amount of the aforesaid Capital Reserve Fund shall be $20,000,000, plus investment income. The probable term is to be twenty (20) years. The funds are to be transferred from surplus monies remaining in the general fund, capital fund, and/or in other reserves not to exceed $5,000,000 from the 2025-2026 budget and thereafter in an annual amount of not more the $5,000,000 for each remaining year of the term. The Superintendent of Schools or his designee is hereby directed to deposit monies of this reserve fund in a separate bank account to be known as the “Facilities Improvement Program 2026.”
AND NOTICE IS ALSO GIVEN that registration shall be conducted at the several polling places stated above by the Boards of Registration of the several component districts as follows: the Bellmore Union Free School District at the District Office, Winthrop Avenue School, 580 Winthrop Avenue, Bellmore, New York, on all school days of the school year until five (5) days preceding the vote between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.; the Merrick Union Free School District at the Administrative Office, 21 Babylon Road, Merrick, New York on all school days of the school year until five (5) days preceding the vote between the hours of 9:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.; the North Bellmore Union Free School District at the Office of the District Clerk, 2616 Martin Avenue, Bellmore, New York, on all school days of the school year until five (5) days preceding the vote between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.; and the North Merrick Union Free School District at the Harold D. Fayette School, 1057 Merrick Avenue, Merrick, New York, on all school days of the school year until five (5) days preceding the vote between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. for the purpose of preparing a register of the qualified
voters entitled to vote at the school meeting and election for which such register is prepared, in the manner provided by law. The register, as so prepared, will be filed in the office of the clerk at each of the respective Union Free School Districts as set forth in this notice of meeting and such register is to be open for inspection at reasonable times for at least five (5) days prior to the date set for voting on the budget and election, except Sunday, and by appointment on the Saturday prior to the election at each elementary district.
AND NOTICE IS ALSO GIVEN that a person shall be entitled to vote at the annual meeting and election who is a citizen of the United States, eighteen years of age, a resident of the Union Free School District in which he intends to vote for a period of thirty days next preceding the election he offers to vote and registered to vote for said election. A person shall be registered to vote if he or she shall have permanently registered with the Nassau County Board of Elections or with the Board of Registration of the component Union Free School District in which he resides. Only persons who shall be registered shall be entitled to vote.
AND NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that the Boards of Registration of the several component Union Free School Districts will meet during the hours of voting on May 19, 2026 at the polling places in each of the Union Free School Districts for the purpose of preparing a register for district meetings or elections to be held subsequent to May 19, 2026; said register shall include (1) all qualified voters of the Union Free School Districts, who shall present themselves personally for registration; and (2) all qualified voters permanently registered with the Nassau County Board of Elections.
AND NOTICE IS ALSO GIVEN that a copy of the statement of the amount of money which will be required for the ensuing year for school purposes (school budget) and copies of propositions involving expenditure of moneys and the operation of the school system for
the ensuing year, may be obtained by any resident in the District during the fourteen days immediately preceding the annual vote except Saturday, Sunday or holidays, at school district offices and any schoolhouse within the district and on the district’s website.
AND NOTICE IS ALSO GIVEN that applications for early mail voting and absentee ballots for the school district election may be applied for at the Office of the Clerk of the District. Applications for early mail voting and absentee ballots must be received by the District Clerk no earlier than thirty (30) days before the election. Furthermore, such application must be received by the District Clerk at least seven days before the election if the ballot is to be mailed to the voter, or the day before the election if the ballot is to be delivered personally to the voter or his/ her designated agent. Upon receiving a timely request for a mailed ballot, the District Clerk will mail the ballot to the address set forth in the application by no later than six (6) days before the vote. No early mail voting or absentee voter’s ballot will be canvassed unless it has been received in the office of the District Clerk not later than 5:00 P.M. (prevailing time) on the day of the election. A list of all persons to whom early mail voting and absentee ballots shall have been issued will be available for inspection at the Office of the Clerk until the day of the vote.
AND NOTICE IS ALSO GIVEN that military voters who are not currently registered may apply to register as a qualified voter of the school district. Military voters who are qualified voters of the school district may submit an application for a military ballot. Military voters may designate a preference to receive a military voter registration, military ballot application or military ballot by mail, facsimile transmission or electronic mail in their request for such registration, ballot application or ballot. Military voter registration forms and military ballot application forms must be received in the office of the District Clerk of
Public Notices
the school district no later than 5:00 p.m. on April 23, 2026. No military ballot will be canvassed unless it is (1) received in the office of the District Clerk before the close of the polls on election day and showing a cancellation mark of the United States postal service or a foreign country’s postal service, or showing a dated endorsement of receipt by another agency of the United States government; or (2) received by the office of the District Clerk by no later than 5:00 p.m. on election day and signed and dated by the military voter and one witness thereto, with a date which is associated to be not later than the day before the election.
BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION
BELLMORE-MERRICK
CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL
DISTRICT
PATTIANNE GUCCIONE
DISTRICT CLERK
The above notice will be published in the Bellmore Herald and Merrick Herald newspapers on Thursday, April 2, 2026, April 16, 2026, (REVISED)April 30, 2026 and May 14, 2026. 159882
LEGAL NOTICE
AVISO DE VOTO ANUAL DEL DISTRITO ESCOLAR
BELLMORE-MERRICK
CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT
CIUDAD DE HEMPSTEAD, CONDADO DE NASSAU, NUEVA YORK
EL AVISO SE HA DADO AQUI que el voto anual de los votantes calificados del BellmoreMerrick Central High School District, el Condado de Nassau, Nueva York, se llevará a cabo el Martes, el 19 de mayo de 2026, en los varios lugares de votación designados por el Bellmore, Merrick, North Bellmore y North Merrick Union Free School Districts, de la siguiente manera:
BELLMORE UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT, en el Charles A. Reinhard Early Childhood Center, 2750 South St. Marks Avenue, Bellmore, New York, entre las 6:30 a.m. y las 9:00 p.m.
MERRICK UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT, en la Merrick District Office-Katherine E. Reif Administration Center, 21 Babylon Road, Merrick, Nueva York, entre las 7:00 a.m. y las 9:00 p.m.
NORTH BELLMORE UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT en la escuela Newbridge Road, 1601 Newbridge Road, North Bellmore, Nueva York, entre las 6:00 a.m. y las 9:00 p.m.
NORTH MERRICK UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT, en la Biblioteca Pública de North Merrick, 1691 Meadowbrook Road, North Merrick, Nueva York, entre las 6:30 a.m. y las 9:00 p.m.
Para los siguientes propósitos:
PROPUESTA NUMERO 1- PRESUPUESTO DEL DISTRITO ESCOLAR CENTRAL DE EDUCACIÓN SECUNDARIA
SE RESUELVE, que la Junta de Educación del Distrito Central de Escuelas Secundarias CHSD) de BellmoreMerrick, ciudad de Hempstead, condado de Nassau, está autorizada a gastar las Sumas apropiadas del fondo general de $210,364,131 que se recaudarán mediante impuestos en los distintos distritos incluidos dentro del Distrito Central de Escuelas Secundarias después de deducir, primero, los fondos disponibles correspondientes a la ayuda estatal y otras fuentes.
PROPUESTA NUMERO 2 - PROYECTOS DE MEJORAS DE CAPITAL DEL DISTRITO ESCOLAR CENTRAL DE EDUCACIÓN SECUNDARIA
SE RESUELVE, que la Junta de Educación del Distrito Escolar Central de Bellmore Merrick queda autorizada para gastar $2,500,000 del Fondo de Reserva de Capital establecido en mayo de 2024 con el propósito de realizar los siguientes proyectos: (1) reconstrucción del elevador; (2) renovaciones del sistema de altavoces e intercomunicación; (3) renovaciones de mampostería; (4) renovaciones de pisos y techos; (5) reemplazo de particiones del gimnasio; (6) reemplazo del sistema de expulsión de aguas residuales; (7) renovaciones de HVAC; (8) reemplazo de aceras, todos en la Escuela Secundaria WellingtonC. Mepham, incluyendo toda la mano de obra, materiales, equipos, aparatos y costos incidentales relacionados. Dado
que los fondos a utilizar provienen del Fondo de Reserva de Capital, la aprobación de esta proposición no requerirá un impuesto sobre la propiedad inmobiliaria del distrito. Esta Proposición será independiente de la Proposición No. 1.
PROPUESTA NUMERO
3 - FONDO DE RESERVA
PARA INVERSIONES DE CAPITAL DEL DISTRITO ESCOLAR CENTRAL SE RESUELVE, que de conformidad con la Sección 3651 de la Ley de Educación, por la presente se autoriza a la Junta de Educación del Distrito Escolar Central de BellmoreMerrick a establecer un Fondo de Reserva para Inversiones de Capital con el fin de financiar los siguientes proyectos de mejoras de capital: mejoras/renovaciones/ modernizaciones de espacios educativos y no educativos (incluyendo, entre otros, mejoras/renovaciones/ modernizaciones de aulas y/o ampliaciones a las instalaciones existentes), renovaciones de auditorios, renovaciones de gimnasios, renovaciones de cafeterías, renovaciones de bibliotecas/ centros multimedia, renovaciones/ reconstrucción exterior, modernizaciones de computadoras/ tecnología, modernizaciones de sistemas de seguridad, mejoras/renovaciones/ modernizaciones de plomería, mejoras/ renovaciones/ modernizaciones eléctricas, mejoras/ renovaciones/ modernizaciones de HVAC, mejoras/ renovación/ modernizaciones de eficiencia energética, incluida la instalación de energía solar, mejoras/renovaciones/ modernizaciones, reemplazo de tanque de combustible, renovaciones requeridas para el cumplimiento de los requisitos de ADA, renovaciones para la preparación vocacional y profesional, reemplazo y/o adquisición de aulas portátiles, reemplazo de techos/canaletas/ bajantes, reemplazo de ventanas, renovaciones estructurales, incluido el reemplazo de mampostería, ladrillo y acero, repavimentación y reemplazo de concreto, reemplazo de puertas interiores y exteriores/ vías de acceso (incluidos los herrajes), renovaciones de baños,
mejoras de iluminación, reemplazo de cielorrasos, reemplazo de pisos, reemplazo de paredes, reemplazo de calderas, ascensores, renovaciones de carpintería, adquisición de edificios/terrenos, renovaciones/ reconstrucción del predio, incluida la repavimentación de pistas y el reemplazo de campos de césped, mejoras/renovaciones/ modernizaciones de cabinas de prensa/ refugios/instalaciones deportivas, mejoras/ renovaciones/ modernizaciones de gradas, modernización de letreros, renovaciones/ reconstrucción de campos deportivos, renovaciones de canchas de tenis, renovaciones de áreas de juego, renovaciones de casilleros/vestuarios, reemplazo del sistema de megafonía/relojes, modernización del sistema de sonido, modernización del sistema telefónico, remediación de materiales peligrosos, renovaciones de espacios de almacenamiento, mobiliario y equipo, incluida la adquisición de vehículos.
El límite máximo del Fondo de Reserva para Inversiones de Capital se establece en $20,000,000, incluyendo los rendimientos generados por las inversiones. Se prevé un plazo de veinte (20) años para la ejecución del mismo. Los fondos se transferirán desde los excedentes remanentes en el fondo general, el fondo de capital y/o otras reservas, sin superar los $5,000,000 en el presupuesto 20252026. Posteriormente, se asignará una cantidad anual que no excederá de $5,000,000 por cada año restante del plazo. Se instruye al Superintendent of Schools, o a la persona que este designe, a depositar los fondos de esta reserva en una cuenta bancaria separada denominada “Facilities Improvement Program 2026”. a.
Y TAMBIÉN SE DA AVISO que el registro se llevará a cabo en los lugares de votación indicados anteriormente por Las Juntas de Registro de los varios distritos componentes de la siguiente manera: la Bellmore Union Free School District en la
Oficina del Distrito, Winthrop Avenue School, 580 Winthrop Avenue, Bellmore, Nueva York, en todos los días de clases del año escolar hasta cinco (5) días anteriores a la votación entre el horario de 9:00 a.m. y las 3:00 p.m.; la Merrick Union Free School District en la Oficina Administrativa, 21 Babylon Road, Merrick, Nueva York, en todos los días de clases del año escolar hasta cinco (5) días anteriores a la votación entre las horas de 9:30 a.m. y 3:30 p.m.; la North Bellmore Union Free School District en la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito, 2616 Martin Avenue, Bellmore, Nueva York, y en todos los días de clases del año escolar hasta cinco (5) días anteriores a la votación entre el horario de 9:00 a.m. y las 3:00 p.m.; y la North Merrick Union Free School District en la escuela Harold D. Fayette, 1057 Merrick Avenue, Merrick, Nueva York, en todos los días escolares del año escolar hasta cinco (5) días antes de la votación entre las 9:00 a.m. y 3:30 p.m. con el fin de preparar un registro de los votantes calificados con derecho a votar en la reunión de la escuela y la elección para la que dicho registro es preparado, en la forma prevista por la ley. El registro, como así preparado, será archivado en la Oficina del Secretario (District Clerk) en cada uno de los respectivos Distritos Unión Libre como se establece en este aviso y dicho registro sera abierto por inspección en horas razonables hasta cinco (5) días antes de la fecha establecida para votar sobre el presupuesto y la elección del distrito, excepto el domingo, y por cita el sábado anterior de la elección en cada distrito elemental.
Y ADEMÁS SE NOTIFICA que Las Juntas de Registro (Boards of Registration) de las varias escuelas componentes tendran una reunion el 19 de mayo 2026 durante las horas de votación en los lugares de votación en cada escuela para el propósito de preparer el registro para que las elecciones tendran lugar despues del 19 de mayo 2026; El Registro incluirá (1) todos los votantes calificados de las escuelas, quines se presentáran personalemente para registro; y (2) todos votantes calificados permanente registrados con la Junta Electoral del Condado de Nassau (Nassau County Board of Elections).
Y TAMBIÉN
SE DA AVISO que una copia de la declaración de la cantidad de dinero que se requerirá para el año siguiente para fines escolares (presupuesto escolar) y copias de las propuestas que involucran gastos de dinero y el funcionamiento del sistema escolar para el año siguiente , puede ser obtenido por cualquier residente del Distrito durante los catorce días inmediatamente anteriores a la votación anual, excepto sábados, domingos o días festivos, en las oficinas del distrito escolar y en cualquier escuela dentro del distrito y en el sitio web del distrito.
Y TAMBIÉN
Y TAMBIÉN SE DA AVISO que una persona quien es cuidadano de Los Estados Unidos, tenga diez y ocho años de edad y es residente del Distrito Escolar de la Unión en el que se tiene la intención de votar a favor un período de treinta días antes de la elección y esta registrado para votar para la elección dicha tendrá derecho a votar. Una persona debera ser registrada para votar si el o ella han registrado permanente con La Junta de Elecciones del Condado de Nassau (Nassau County Board of Elections) o con La Junta de Registro (Board of Registration) del distrito donde el o ella reside. Solamente las personas que estan registradas tienen el derecho para votar.
SE DA AVISO que las solicitudes de votación anticipada por correo y boletas en ausencia para las elecciones del distrito escolar se pueden solicitar en la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito. Las solicitudes de votación anticipada por correo y de voto en ausencia deben ser recibidas por el Secretario del Distrito no antes de treinta (30) días antes de la elección. Además, dicha solicitud debe ser recibida por el Secretario de Distrito al menos siete días antes de la elección si la boleta se enviará por correo al votante, o el día antes de la elección si la boleta se entregará personalmente al votante o a su agente designado. Al recibir una solicitud oportuna de una boleta por correo, el Secretario del Distrito enviará la boleta por correo a la dirección indicada en la solicitud a más tardar seis (6) días antes de la votación. No se escrutará ninguna boleta de votación anticipada por correo ni de votante ausente a menos que se haya recibido en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito a más tardar a las 5:00 p. m. (horario predominante) del día de la elección. Una lista de todas las personas a quienes se les habrá emitido la votación anticipada por correo y el voto en ausencia estará disponible para su inspección en la Oficina del Secretario hasta el día de la votación.
anterior de la elección.
POR ORDEN DE LA JUNTA DE EDUCACIÓN BELLMORE-MERRICK CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT
PATTIANNE GUCCIONE SECRETARIO DE DISTRITO
El aviso anterior se publicará en los periódicos Herald de Bellmore y Herald de Merrick el Jueves, el 2 de abril de 2026, el 16 de abril de 2026 (revisado) y el 30 de abril de 2026 y el 14 de mayo de 2026. 159883
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING, PUBLIC HEARING, ELECTION, AND REGISTRATION OF VOTERS
NORTH BELLMORE UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT
Y TAMBIÉN SE DA AVISO de que los votantes militares que no están registrados actualmente pueden registrarse como votantes calificados del distrito escolar. Los votantes militares que sean votantes calificados del distrito escolar pueden presentar una solicitud para una boleta militar. Los votantes militares pueden designar una preferencia para recibir un registro de votante militar, una solicitud de boleta militar o una boleta militar por correo, transmisión por fax o correo electrónico en su solicitud de dicho registro, solicitud de boleta o boleta. Las formas de registro de votantes militares y las formas de solicitud de boletas militares deben ser recibidas en la oficina del secretario de distrito del distrito escolar no más tarde que a las 5:00 p.m. el 23 de abril de 2026. No se escrutará ninguna boleta militar a menos que (1) se reciba en la oficina del Secretario de Distrito antes del cierre de las urnas el día de las elecciones y que muestre una marca de cancelación del servicio postal de los Estados Unidos o de un servicio postal de un país extranjero, o mostrando un endoso fechado de recibo de otra agencia del gobierno de los Estados Unidos; o (2) recibido por la oficina del secretario de distrito no más tarde que las 5:00 p.m. el día de la elección y firmada y fechada por el votante militar y un testigo del mismo, con una fecha que se asocia a no ser mas tarde del día
NORTH BELLMORE, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, NASSAU COUNTY, NEW YORK
Pursuant to Section 1716 of Education Law a Public Hearing for discussion of the proposed 2026/27 School District Budget, and such other business as may come before the meeting, will be held on May 05, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. at the Administration Building on Martin Avenue, Bellmore, New York. A copy of the state of the amount of monies which will be required for the 2026/27 school year for school purposes may be obtained, upon request, by any school district resident commencing April 30, 2026 during the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. except for Saturdays, Sundays or holidays.
FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Annual Vote of the qualified voters of the North Bellmore Union Free School District will be held at the Newbridge Road School, North Bellmore, on Tuesday, May 19, 2026 for the following purpose:
A. To vote upon the Annual School Budget for the school year 2026-2027 and to authorize levying of a tax upon the taxable property of the North Bellmore School District for such purposes.
B. The election of one (1) member of the Board of Education.
C. To vote upon such other propositions as may properly come
Public Notices
before the meeting.
Voting will be by ballot on voting machines and the polls will remain open for voting from 6:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m., and as much longer as may be necessary for all voters then present to cast their votes. Voting will be in the gymnasium of the Newbridge Road School.
Copies of the proposed 2026/27 budget will be available at each of the offices of the school houses in the district, J. G. Dinkelmeyer School, Newbridge Road School, Park Avenue School, Saw Mill Road School and Martin Avenue School between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. on each day other than a Saturday, Sunday or holiday during the fourteen (14) days preceding the Annual Vote, and on the school’s website.
PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE pursuant to Real Property Tax Law Section 495, an exemption report detailing exemptions from real property taxation shall be available and appended to any tentative, preliminary or final budget.
PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the election of members of the Board of Education will be as follows:
One (1) member of the Board of Education; for full terms of three (3) years, commencing July 1, 2026, and ending June 30, 2029.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that nominating petitions for candidates for the Board of Education must be filed with the District Clerk between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. not later than April 20, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. Each petition shall state the name and residence of each signor, shall state the name and residence of the candidate, and must be signed by not less than thirty (30) qualified voters of the school district for election of members of the Board of Education. Vacancies on the Board of Education are not considered separate, specific offices; candidates run at large. Nominating petitions shall not describe any specific vacancy upon the Board for which the candidate is nominated.
PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that at the Annual Vote, qualified voters of the BellmoreMerrick Central High School District shall vote for the following purposes:
A. To vote upon the annual budget of the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District for the year 2026-2027 and to authorize the levying of a tax upon the taxable property of the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District for such purposes.
B. To vote upon such other propositions as may properly come before the voters.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that pursuant to Education Law §2014 personal registration of voters is required, and no person shall be entitled to vote at the District Meeting whose name does not appear on the register of the District. Voter registration for the District will be ongoing through and including Thursday, May 14, 2026, from 9:00 o’clock A.M. until 3:00 o’clock P.M. (Prevailing Time), on all school days of the school year, at the office of the District Clerk, for the purpose of preparing a register of the qualified voters of the District for said District Meeting, at which time any person shall be entitled to have his/her name placed upon such register, provided that he/she is known or proven to be then or thereafter entitled to vote at said District Meeting for which such register is prepared. Immediately upon its completion, the register will be filed in the office of the District Clerk, 2616 Martin Avenue, Bellmore, New York, and will be open for inspection by any qualified voter of the District between the hours of 9:00 o’clock A.M. and 3:00 o’clock P.M. (Prevailing Time) on each of the five (5) days prior to the District Meeting for which it was prepared, except Sunday, and on Saturday, May 16, 2026 by appointment only.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that pursuant to Education Law §2018a and Education Law §2018-e applications for absentee and early mail ballots may be applied for at the office of the District Clerk. The District Clerk must
receive applications for absentee and early mail ballots no earlier than thirty (30) days before the election. Furthermore, the District Clerk must receive such application at least seven days before the election if the ballot is to be mailed to the voter, or the day before the election if the ballot is to be delivered personally to the voter or his/her designated agent. Upon receiving a timely request for a mailed absentee or early mail ballot, the District Clerk will mail the ballot to the address set forth in the application, by no later than six (6) days before the vote. No absentee or early mail voter’s ballot will be canvassed unless it has been received in the office of the District Clerk not later than 5:00 P.M. (prevailing time) on the day of the election.
A list of all persons to whom absentee and early mail ballots shall have been issued will be available in the office of the District Clerk, 2616 Martin Avenue, North Bellmore, New York, commencing with the issuance of the first absentee or early mail ballot and during regular business hours on each of the five (5) days prior to the day of the election between the hours of 9:00 A.M. and 3:00 P.M. (Prevailing Time), except Sunday and on Saturday, May 16, 2026 by appointment only. Such list will also be available at the polling place on the date of the vote. No absentee or early mail voter’s ballot shall be canvassed unless it shall have been received in the office of the District Clerk of the North Bellmore Union Free School District not later than 5:00 o’clock P.M. (Prevailing Time) on the day of Annual District Meeting.
NOTICE IS ALSO GIVEN that a person shall be entitled to vote at the annual meeting and election who is a citizen of the United States, eighteen years of age, a resident of the District for a period of thirty days next preceding the election he offers to vote and registered to vote for said election. A person shall be registered to vote if he or she shall have permanently registered with the Nassau County Board of Elections or with the Board of Registration of the school district.
Only persons who shall be registered shall be entitled to vote.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that the Board of Registration will meet during the hours of voting on May 19, 2026 at the polling place of the school district for the purpose of preparing a register for District meetings or elections to be held subsequent to May 19, 2026. Said register shall include (1) all qualified voters of the school district who shall present themselves personally for registration; and (2) all qualified voters permanently registered with the Nassau County Board of Elections.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that military voters who are not currently registered may apply to register as a qualified voter of the school district. Military voters who are qualified voters of the school district may submit an application for a military ballot. Military voters may designate a preference to receive a military voter registration, military ballot application or military ballot by mail, facsimile transmission or electronic mail in their request for such registration, ballot application or ballot. Military voter registration forms and military ballot application forms must be received in the office of the District Clerk of the school district no later than 5:00 p.m. on April 23, 2026. No military ballot will be canvassed unless it is (1) received in the office of the District Clerk before the close of the polls on election day and showing a cancellation mark of the United States postal service or a foreign country’s postal service, or showing a dated endorsement of receipt by another agency of the United States government; or (2) received by the office of the District Clerk by no later than 5:00 p.m. on election day and signed and dated by the military voter and one witness thereto, with a date which is associated to be not later than the day before the election.
BY THE ORDER OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION
Laurice Gunnels District Clerk
This information is provided in Spanish in compliance with the
Voting Rights Act of 1965. 159359
LEGAL NOTICE AVISO DE REUNIÓN ANUAL, AUDIENCIA PÚBLICA, ELECCIÓN, Y EL REGISTRO DE VOTANTES
DISTRITO ESCOLAR NORTH BELLMORE UNION FREE NORTH BELLMORE, MUNICIPIO DE HEMPSTEAD, CONDADO DE NASSAU, NUEVA YORK
De acuerdo con la Sección 1716 de la Ley de Educación, se celebrará una Audiencia Pública para debatir el presupuesto propuesto del Distrito Escolar 2026/27 y cualquier otro asunto que pueda surgir antes de la reunión, el 5 de mayo de 2026 a las 19:30 horas en el Edificio de Administración en Martin Avenue, Bellmore, Nueva York. Cualquier residente del distrito escolar a partir del 30 de abril de 2026 de 2026 a fin escolar podrá obtener una copia del estado del importe que se requerrá para el curso escolar 2026 a petición de cualquier residente del distrito escolar a partir del 30 de abril de 2026, excepto sábados, domingos y 15:00, excepto sábados, domingos o festivos.
SE DA UN AVISO
ADICIONAL de que la votación anual de los votantes cualificados del Distrito Escolar Libre de North Bellmore Union se celebrará en la escuela Newbridge Road, North Bellmore, el martes 19 de mayo de 2026 con el siguiente propósito:
A. Para votar sobre el Presupuesto Anual de la Escuela para el curso escolar 2026-2027 y autorizar la imposición de un impuesto sobre los bienes gravables del Norte Distrito Escolar de Bellmore para tales fines.
B. La elección de uno (1) miembro de la Junta de Educación.
C. Votar sobre otras proposiciones que puedan presentarse adecuadamente ante la reunión.
La votación se realizará por papeleta en las máquinas de votación y las urnas permanecerán abiertas desde las 6:00 a.m. hasta las 9:00 p.m., y durante todo el tiempo que sea necesario para que todos los votantes presentes puedan emitir
su voto. La votación se realizará en el gimnasio de la escuela Newbridge Road.
Copias del presupuesto propuesto para 2026/27 estarán disponibles en cada una de las oficinas de las escuelas del distrito: J. G. Dinkelmeyer School, Newbridge Road School, Park Avenue School, Saw Mill Road School y Martin Avenue School entre las 9:00 y las 15:00 horas de cada día excepto sábado, domingo o festivo durante los catorce (14) días previos a la Votación Anual, y en la página web del colegio.
POR FAVOR, TOME MÁS NOTA conforme a la Sección 495 de la Ley del Impuesto sobre Bienes Inmuebles, estará disponible un informe de exención detallando exenciones de la tributación sobre bienes inmuebles que se adjuntará a cualquier presupuesto tentativo, preliminar o final.
POR FAVOR, TOME NOTA de que la elección de los miembros de la Junta de Educación será la siguiente:
Un (1) miembro de la Junta de Educación; por mandatos completos de tres (3) años, comenzando el 1 de julio de 2026 y finalizando el 30 de junio de 2029.
SE NOTIFICA ADEMÁS que las peticiones de nominación para candidatos a la Junta de Educación deben presentarse ante el Secretario del Distrito entre las 9:00 y las 15:00 horas, a más tardar el 20 de abril de 2026 a las 17:00. Cada petición deberá indicar el nombre y la residencia de cada señor, el nombre y la residencia del candidato, y deberá ser firmada por no menos de treinta (30) votantes cualificados del distrito escolar para la elección de los miembros de la Junta de Educación. Las vacantes en la Junta de Educación no se consideran cargos separados o específicos; los candidatos se presentan en la categoría de votos libres. Las peticiones de nominación no describirán ninguna vacante específica en la Junta para la que el candidato sea nominado.
POR FAVOR, TOME NOTA de que en la votación anual, los votantes cualificados del Distrito Escolar
Central de BellmoreMerrick deberán votar para los siguientes fines:
A. Votar sobre el presupuesto anual del instituto BellmoreMerrick Central High Distrito Escolar para el año 2026-2027 y autorizar la recaudación de un impuesto sobre la propiedad sujeta a impuestos del instituto Bellmore-Merrick Central High School Distrito para tales fines.
B. Votar sobre otras proposiciones que puedan presentarse adecuadamente ante el votantes.
SE NOTIFICA ADEMÁS que, conforme a la Ley de Educación §2014, se requiere el registro personal de votantes, y ninguna persona tendrá derecho a votar en la Asamblea del Distrito cuyo nombre no figure en el registro del Distrito. El registro de votantes para el Distrito continuará hasta el jueves 14 de mayo de 2026, desde las 9:00 a.m. hasta las 3:00 p.m. (hora vigente), en todos los días escolares del curso escolar, en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito, con el fin de preparar un registro de los votantes cualificados del Distrito para dicha reunión del distrito, en ese momento, cualquier persona tendrá derecho a que su nombre se incluya en dicho registro, siempre que se sepa o se demuestre que tiene derecho a voto en dicha Asamblea de Distrito para la que dicho registro se prepare. Inmediatamente después de su finalización, el registro se archivará en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito, 2616 Martin Avenue, Bellmore, Nueva York, y estará abierto para la inspección de cualquier votante cualificado del Distrito entre las 9:00 y las 15:00 (hora vigente) de cada uno de los cinco (5) días previos a la reunión del distrito para la que fue preparado, excepto el domingo y el sábado 16 de mayo de 2026 solo con cita previa.
Una lista de todas las personas a las que se hayan emitido papeletas por correo anticipado y por correo anticipado estará disponible en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito, 2616 Martin Avenue, North Bellmore, Nueva York, comenzando con la emisión de la primera papeleta por correo por correo anticipado y durante el horario laboral regular en cada uno de los cinco (5) días previos al día de la elección, entre las 9:00 y las 15:00 (hora vigente), excepto el domingo y el sábado 16 de mayo de 2026 solo con cita previa. Dicha lista también estará disponible en el colegio electoral en la fecha de la votación. No se podrá hacer campaña de votación por correo o por correo anticipado a menos que se haya recibido en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito Escolar Libre de North Bellmore Union a más tardar a las 17:00 horas (hora vigente) del día de la Asamblea Anual del Distrito.
TAMBIÉN SE NOTIFICA que una persona tendrá derecho a votar en la asamblea anual y elección que sea ciudadano de los Estados Unidos, de dieciocho años, residente del Distrito por un periodo de treinta días antes de la elección que ofrezca votar y registrada para votar en dicha elección. Una persona estará registrada para votar
SE NOTIFICA ADEMÁS que, conforme a la Ley de Educación §2018-a y la Ley de Educación §2018-e, las solicitudes para papeletas por correo anticipado y por correo anticipado pueden solicitarse en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito. El Secretario del Distrito debe recibir solicitudes para votos por correo anticipado y por correo anticipado no antes de treinta (30) días antes de la elección. Además, el Secretario del Distrito debe recibir dicha solicitud al menos siete días antes de la elección si la papeleta debe enviarse al votante, o el día antes de la elección si la papeleta debe entregarse personalmente al votante o a su agente designado. Al recibir una solicitud oportuna de una papeleta por correo por correo anticipado o por correo postal, el Secretario del Distrito enviará la papeleta a la dirección indicada en la solicitud, a más tardar seis (6) días antes de la votación. No se solicitará el voto de votación por correo anticipado o por correo anticipado a menos que se haya recibido en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito a más tardar a las 17:00 horas (hora vigente) el día de la elección.
Public Notices
si se ha registrado permanentemente en la Junta Electoral del Condado de Nassau o en la Junta de Registro del distrito escolar. Solo las personas que vayan a estar registradas tendrán derecho a voto.
SE NOTIFICA ADEMÁS que la Junta de Registro se reunirá durante el horario de votación del 19 de mayo de 2026 en el colegio electoral del distrito escolar con el fin de preparar un registro para las reuniones o elecciones del distrito que se celebrarán después del 19 de mayo de 2026. Dicho registro incluirá (1) todos los votantes cualificados del distrito escolar que se presenten personalmente para su registro; y (2) todos los votantes cualificados registrados permanentemente en la Junta Electoral del Condado de Nassau.
SE AVISA ADEMÁS de que los votantes militares que no estén actualmente registrados pueden solicitar registrarse como votantes cualificados del distrito escolar. Los votantes militares que sean votantes cualificados del distrito escolar pueden presentar una solicitud para una papeleta militar. Los votantes militares pueden designar una preferencia para recibir un registro de votante militar, solicitud de papeleta militar o papeleta militar por correo, transmisión por fax o correo electrónico en su solicitud de dicho registro, solicitud de papeleta o papeleta. Los formularios de registro de votantes militares y los formularios de solicitud de papeleta militar deben recibirse en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito escolar a más tardar a las 17:00 horas del 23 de abril de 2026. No se revisará ninguna papeleta militar a menos que (1) se reciba en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito antes del cierre de las urnas el día de las elecciones y muestre una marca de cancelación del servicio postal de Estados Unidos o del servicio postal de un país extranjero, o que muestre una avalación fechada de recepción por parte de otra agencia del gobierno de Estados Unidos; o (2) recibido por la oficina del Secretario del Distrito a más tardar a las 17:00 horas del
día de las elecciones y firmado y fechado por el votante militar y un testigo, con una fecha asociada a no más tardar que el día anterior a la elección.
POR ORDEN DE LA JUNTA DE EDUCACIÓN
Laurice Gunnels
Secretario de distrito
Esta información se proporciona en español en cumplimiento de la Ley de Derecho al Voto de 1965. 159361
LEGAL NOTICE
ANNUAL SCHOOL DISTRICT MEETING AND ELECTION
NORTH MERRICK UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, NASSAU COUNTY, NEW YORK
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a Budget Hearing of the North Merrick Union Free School District will be held at Harold D. Fayette School, 1057 Merrick Avenue, North Merrick, New York, on the 5th of May 2026, at 7:00 PM for the transaction of such business as is authorized by Education Law.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN the annual budget vote and election of the North Merrick Union Free School District will be held at the North Merrick Library, 1691 Meadowbrook, Road, North Merrick, New York on Tuesday, May 19, 2026 for the purpose of voting on estimated expenses for the school year 2026-2027 and upon such propositions as may properly come before the meeting, as well as the election of two (2) members of the Board of Education each for a three-year term, commencing July 1, 2026 and expiring on June 30, 2029. Voting will be on machines, and polls will be open between the hours of 6:30 AM and 9:00 PM on that day.
PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE, that at the afore-said election, qualified voters of the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District shall vote for the following purposes: (A) vote upon the annual school budget for the year 2026-2027 and to authorize the levying of a tax upon the taxable property of the district for the foregoing purposes. (B) To vote upon such other
propositions as may properly come before the meeting.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that pursuant to Section 495 of the Real Property Tax Law the School District is required to attach to its proposed budget an exemption report. Said exemption report, which will also become part of the final budget, will show how much of the total assessed value of the final assessment roll used in the budgetary process is exempt from taxation, list every type of exemption granted by statutory authority, and show the cumulative impact of each type of exemption, the cumulative amount expected to be received as payments in lieu of taxes, and the cumulative impact of all exemptions granted. The exemption report shall be posted on any bulletin board maintained by the District for public notices and on any website maintained by the District.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN the Board of Education has designated Thursday, May 14, 2026 between the hours of 8:00 AM and 3:30 PM to prepare the register of the School District at the Harold D. Fayette School, 1057 Merrick Avenue, Merrick, New York. Residents may also register on school days between 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM in the District Clerk’s office until five days before the District vote. Qualified residents of the North Merrick Union Free School District must register at this time if not previously registered, in order to be eligible to vote at the annual meeting and on the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District Budget and Propositions. Any person shall be entitled to have his/her name placed upon such register provided that he/she is known or proven to the satisfaction of the District Clerk or a member of the board of registration, to be then or thereafter entitled to vote at the annual district election for which such register is prepared. If a voter is registered and eligible to vote under Article 5 of the Election Law, he or she is also eligible to vote at this election without further registration.
NO PERSON will be
entitled to vote at the annual budget meeting and election of the North Merrick Union Free School District and the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School Budget Vote whose name does not appear on either the Register of the North Merrick Union Free School District or the County registration lists provided by the County election officials.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that voters qualifying to vote by absentee or early mail ballot may apply and receive an absentee or early mail ballot from the District Clerk of the District. An application must be received by the District Clerk no earlier than thirty (30) days before the election for which an absentee or early mail ballot is sought. Completed absentee and early mail ballot applications must be received by the District Clerk at least seven (7) days before the election if the ballot is to be mailed to the voter, or the day before the election, if the ballot is to be delivered personally to the voter or his/her designated agent. Upon receiving a timely request for a mailed absentee or early mail ballot, the District Clerk will mail the ballot to the address set forth in the application by no later than six (6) days before the vote. Absentee and early mail ballots must be received by the District Clerk not later than 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 19, 2026. A list of all persons to whom absentee and early mail ballots shall have been issued, will be available in the Office of the District Clerk on each of the five (5) days prior to the day of the election except Sundays.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that military voters who are not currently registered may apply to register as a qualified voter of the school district. Military voters who are qualified voters of the school district may submit an application for a military ballot. Military voters may designate a preference to receive a military voter registration, military ballot application or military ballot by mail, facsimile transmission or electronic mail in their request for such registration, ballot application or ballot. Military voter
registration forms and military ballot application forms must be received in the Office of the District Clerk no later than 5:00 p.m. on April 23, 2026. No military ballot will be canvassed unless it is (1) received in the Office of the District Clerk before the close of the polls on election day and showing a cancellation mark of the United States postal service or a foreign country’s postal service, or showing a dated endorsement of receipt by another agency of the United States government; or (2) received by the Office of the District Clerk by no later than 5:00 p.m. on election day and signed and dated by the military voter and one witness thereto, with a date which is associated to be not later than the day before the election.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that a copy of the statements of the amount of money which will be required for the ensuing year for school purpose, exclusive of public monies, may be obtained by any qualified voter of the District during the fourteen (14) days immediately preceding the Annual Meeting except Saturday, Sunday, or holidays, between the hours of 9:00 AM and 3:30 PM at the District’s central office located at 1057 Merrick Avenue, and at each of the school houses in said District, to wit: Camp Avenue, Harold D. Fayette, and Old Mill Road Schools, at the North Merrick Public Library, on the District’s website, and at the Annual Meeting.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that the register of the school district shall be filed in the Office of the District Clerk where it shall be open for inspection by any qualified voter of the School District, between the hours of 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM on each of the five days prior to and the day of the Annual District Election, except Sunday, and on Saturday, May 16, 2026 by appointment.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that the Board of Registration of the North Merrick Union Free School District will meet during the hours of voting on May 19, 2026, at the polling place for the purpose of preparing a register for District meetings or elections to be held subsequent to May 19,
2026. Said register shall include: (1) all qualified voters of the Union Free School District, who shall present themselves personally for registration; and (2) all qualified voters permanently registered with the Nassau County Board of Elections; and (3) all previously qualified voters of the District who shall have been previously registered for any annual or special District meeting or election and who shall have voted at any annual or special District meeting or election held or conducted at any time within the four calendar years (2021-2025) prior to preparation of the registration of voters.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that petitions nominating candidates for the office of member of the Board of Education shall be filed with the District Clerk at the Office of the Clerk between the hours of 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM on or before April 20, 2026. Vacancies on the Board of Education are not considered separate, specific offices; candidates run at large. Nominating petitions shall not describe any specific vacancy upon the Board for which the candidate is nominated; must be directed to the Clerk of the District; must be signed by 25 qualified voters of the District; must state the name and residence of each signer, and the name and residence of the candidate.
AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that pursuant to a rule adopted by the Board of Education in accordance with §2035 of the Education Law, any referenda or propositions to amend the budget, or otherwise to be submitted for voting at said election, must be filed with the District Clerk in sufficient time to permit notice of the proposition to be included with the Notice of the Public Hearing, Budget Vote and Election, if required to be included in said notice, or on or before March 20, 2026, at 5:00 p.m.; prevailing time; must be typed or printed in the English language; must be directed to the District Clerk; must be signed by at least 75 qualified voters of the District; and must legibly state the name of each signer. However, the School Board will not entertain any petition to
place before the voters any proposition the purpose of which is not within the powers of the voters to determine, which is unlawful or any proposition which fails to include a specific appropriation where the expenditure of monies is required by the proposition, or where other valid reason exists for excluding the proposition from the ballot.
PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that this Board shall convene a special meeting thereof within twenty-four hours after the filing with the District Clerk of a written report of the results of the ballot for the purpose of examining and tabulating said reports of the result of the ballot and declaring the result of the ballot; that the Board hereby designates itself to be a set of poll clerks to cast and canvass ballots pursuant to Education Law §2019a, subdivision 2b at said special meeting of the Board.
BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION NORTH MERRICK UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT Town of Hempstead, Merrick, New York
JOANNE LONG, DISTRICT CLERK 1057 Merrick Avenue, Merrick, New York
Merrick Herald Life: April 2, April 16, April 30, May 14 Long Island Business News: April 3, April 17, May 1, May 15 159371
LEGAL NOTICE AVISO MODIFICADO SOBRE LA REUNIÓN Y ELECCIÓN ANUAL DEL DISTRITO ESCOLAR
DISTRITO ESCOLAR NORTH MERRICK UNION FREE, PUEBLO DE HEMPSTEAD, CONDADO DE NASSAU, NUEVA YORK
POR EL PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA que se llevará a cabo una audiencia sobre el presupuesto del Distrito Escolar North Merrick Union Free en la escuela Harold D. Fayette, 1057 Merrick Avenue, North Merrick, Nueva York, el día 5th de mayo de 2026, a las 7:00 p. m., para la resolución de dichos asuntos de acuerdo con lo estipulado por la Ley de Educación.
TAMBIÉN SE NOTIFICA
que la votación anual sobre el presupuesto y la elección del Distrito Escolar Libre Unificado de North Merrick se llevarán a cabo en la biblioteca pública de North Merrick, 1691 Meadowbrook Road, North Merrick, Nueva York, el día martes 19 de mayo de 2026, con el propósito de realizar una votación sobre los gastos estimados para el año escolar 2026-2027 y sobre cualquier propuesta que pueda presentarse oportunamente en la reunión, al igual que sobre la elección de dos (2) miembros de la Junta de Educación, cada uno con un cargo de tres años de duración, que comenzará el 1 de julio de 2026 y finalizará el 30 de junio de 2029. La votación se realizará con máquinas y se podrá votar desde las 6:30 a. m. hasta las 9:00 p. m. de ese mismo día.
TAMBIN SE NOTIFICA que, en la elección antes mencionada, los votantes calificados del Distrito Central de Escuelas Secundarias de Bellmore-Merrick votarán con los siguientes fines: (A) votar sobre el presupuesto escolar anual para el año 2026-2027 y autorizar la imposición de un impuesto sobre la propiedad sujeta a tributación del distrito para los fines antes expuestos; (B) votar sobre aquellas otras propuestas que puedan presentarse debidamente ante la asamblea.
TAMBIÉN que la Educación el día abril de a. m. a la realización reunión Registros Harold 1057 Merrick Merrick, para preparar del Distrito residentes pueden oficina de del Distrito los días escolar a. m. hasta m., hasta antes de del Distrito. elegibles durante y sobre y las Distrito de Escuelas de Bellmore-Merrick, residentes del Distrito Libre North registrarse momento hecho persona a que incluya siempre sepa o ante la Distrito o de la Junta que dicha tiene, en o en adelante, a votar anual del la cual se registro. está registrado elegible virtud del la Ley también votar en sin necesidad registro
NINGUNA tendrá derecho en la de presupuesto elección Escolar Union Free votación del Distrito Escuelas
Bellmore-Merrick nombre el registro Escolar Union Free de registro provistas funcionarios del condado.
que que cumplan requisitos mediante electoral o boleta
TAMBIÉN SE NOTIFICA que, de acuerdo con la Sección 495 de la Ley del Impuesto sobre Bienes Inmuebles, el Distrito Escolar debe adjuntar un informe de exención al presupuesto sugerido. Este informe de exenciones, que también formará parte del presupuesto final, mostrará qué parte del valor total calculado de la lista final de tasación usada durante el proceso presupuestario queda libre de impuestos, enumerará todos los tipos de exenciones otorgadas por la autoridad legal y mostrará el impacto acumulativo de cada tipo de exención, el monto acumulativo que se espera recibir en pagos en lugar de los impuestos y el impacto acumulativo de todas las exenciones otorgadas. El informe de exenciones se publicará en cualquier tablero de anuncios designe públicos web del
TAMBIÉN
HERALD
April 30, 2026 — MERRICK
26 votación anual presupuesto y Distrito Unificado Merrick se cabo en la pública de Merrick, 1691 Road, Nueva martes 19 2026, con realizar sobre estimados escolar sobre propuesta presentarse en la igual que elección de dos la Junta cada uno de tres duración, que de julio finalizará el de 2029. realizará y se desde las las 9:00 mismo día.
NOTIFICA elección mencionada, los calificados Central de Secundarias Bellmore-Merrick con los fines: sobre el escolar el año autorizar de un sobre la sujeta tributación del los fines expuestos; (B) aquellas propuestas que presentarse ante la
NOTIFICA
acuerdo con 495 de la Impuesto sobre Inmuebles, el Escolar debe informe de presupuesto informe exenciones, que formará parte presupuesto final, parte del calculado de tasación durante el presupuestario libre de enumerará tipos de otorgadas autoridad legal impacto de cada exención, el acumulativo espera recibir en lugar impuestos y el acumulativo exenciones informe de publicará tablero de
Public Notices
anuncios que el distrito designe para avisos públicos y en el sitio web del distrito.
TAMBIÉN SE NOTIFICA que la Junta de Educación ha designado el día viernes 14 de abril de 2026, de 8:00 a. m. a 3:30 p. m. para la realización de una reunión de la Junta de Registros en la escuela Harold D. Fayette, 1057 Merrick Avenue, Merrick, Nueva York, para preparar el registro del Distrito Escolar. Los residentes también pueden registrarse en la oficina de la secretaria del Distrito durante los días de actividad escolar desde las 9:00 a. m. hasta las 4:00 p. m., hasta cinco días antes de la votación del Distrito. Para ser elegibles para votar durante la reunión anual y sobre el presupuesto y las propuestas del Distrito Escolar Central de Escuelas Secundarias de Bellmore-Merrick, los residentes calificados del Distrito Escolar Libre Unificado de North Merrick deben registrarse en ese momento si no lo han hecho antes. Toda persona tendrá derecho a que su nombre se incluya en el registro, siempre y cuando se sepa o se demuestre ante la secretaria del Distrito o algún miembro de la Junta de Registros que dicha persona tiene, en ese momento o en adelante, derecho a votar en la elección anual del distrito, para la cual se prepara dicho registro. Si un votante está registrado y es elegible para votar en virtud del Artículo 5 de la Ley de Elecciones, también es elegible para votar en esta elección sin necesidad de ningún registro adicional.
NINGUNA PERSONA tendrá derecho a votar en la reunión anual de presupuesto y la elección del Distrito Escolar North Merrick Union Free ni en la votación de presupuesto del Distrito Central de Escuelas Secundarias de Bellmore-Merrick si su nombre no aparece en el registro del Distrito Escolar North Merrick Union Free o en las listas de registro del condado provistas por los funcionarios electorales del condado.
TAMBIÉN SE NOTIFICA que los votantes que cumplan con los requisitos para votar mediante boleta electoral por ausencia o boleta electoral
anticipada por correo pueden solicitar y recibir una boleta electoral por ausencia o una boleta electoral anticipada por correo a través de la secretaria del Distrito. La secretaria del Distrito deberá recibir la solicitud no antes de los treinta (30) días previos a la elección para la cual se solicita una boleta electoral por ausencia o una boleta electoral anticipada por correo. La secretaria del Distrito debe recibir las solicitudes de boleta electoral por ausencia y boleta electoral anticipada por correo completas por lo menos siete (7) días antes de la elección si la boleta electoral debe enviarse al votante por correo, o hasta el día antes de la elección si la boleta electoral debe entregarse al votante o a la persona designada por este en persona. Al recibir una solicitud oportuna para enviar por correo una boleta electoral por ausencia o una boleta electoral anticipada por correo, la secretaria del Distrito enviará por correo dicha boleta a la dirección indicada en la solicitud a más tardar seis (6) días antes de la votación. La secretaria del Distrito debe recibir las boletas electorales por ausencia y las boletas electorales anticipadas por correo antes de las 5:00 p. m. del día martes19 de mayo de 2026. Durante los cinco (5) días anteriores al día de la elección, excepto los domingos, en la oficina de la secretaria del Distrito se encontrará a disposición una lista de todas las personas a quienes se les hayan emitido boletas electorales por ausencia y boletas electorales anticipadas por correo.
TAMBIÉN SE NOTIFICA que los votantes militares que no estén registrados actualmente pueden solicitar su inscripción como votantes calificados del distrito escolar. Los votantes militares que sean votantes calificados del Distrito Escolar podrán enviar una solicitud de boleta electoral militar. Estos votantes pueden indicar su preferencia de recibir un registro de votante militar, una solicitud de boleta electoral militar o una boleta electoral militar por correo postal, fax o correo electrónico en su pedido del registro, de la solicitud de boleta electoral o la boleta electoral. Los formularios de registro
de votantes militares y los formularios de solicitud de boleta electoral militar se deben recibir en la oficina de la secretaria del Distrito antes de las 5:00 p. m. del 23 de abril de 2026. Las boletas electorales militares no serán escrutadas, a menos que (1) la oficina de la secretaria del Distrito las reciba antes del cierre de la votación el día de la elección y tengan una marca de cancelación del servicio postal de los Estados Unidos o del servicio postal de un país extranjero, o un endoso fechado de recepción por parte de otro organismo del Gobierno de los Estados Unidos, o bien (2) la oficina de la secretaria del Distrito las reciba antes de las 5:00 p. m. del día de la elección, y estén firmadas y fechadas por el votante militar y un testigo de ello, con una fecha asociada que no sea posterior al día previo a la elección.
TAMBIÉN SE NOTIFICA que cualquier votante calificado del Distrito podrá obtener una copia de las declaraciones de la cantidad de dinero que será requerido para fines escolares para el año siguiente, a excepción de los fondos públicos, durante los catorce (14) días inmediatamente anteriores a la reunión anual, excepto los sábados, domingos o feriados, en la oficina central del Distrito ubicada en 1057 Merrick Avenue, de 9:00 a. m. a 3:30 p. m., y en cualquiera de las sedes escolares del Distrito, es decir: las escuelas Camp Avenue, Harold D. Fayette y Old Mill Road, la biblioteca pública de North Merrick, el sitio web del Distrito y en la reunión anual.
TAMBIÉN SE NOTIFICA que el registro del Distrito Escolar se presentará en la oficina de la secretaria del Distrito, donde quedará abierto para la inspección de los votantes calificados del Distrito Escolar, de 9:00 a. m. a 4:00 p. m. durante los cinco días anteriores a la elección y el mismo día de la elección anual del distrito, excepto el domingo, y el sábado 16 de mayo de 2026 con cita previa.
TAMBIÉN SE NOTIFICA que la Junta de Registros del Distrito Escolar North Merrick Union Free School se reunirá durante el
horario de votación el día 19 de mayo de 2026 en el lugar de votación con el fin de preparar un registro para elecciones o reuniones del Distrito que se realizarán después del 19 de mayo de 2026. Dicho registro incluirá: (1) a todos los votantes calificados del Distrito Escolar Libre Unificado de North Merrick, que deberán presentarse personalmente para el registro; (2) a todos los votantes calificados registrados permanentemente en la Junta de Elecciones del condado de Nassau, y (3) a todos los votantes previamente calificados del Distrito que se hayan registrado previamente para cualquier elección o reunión anual o especial del Distrito y que hayan votado en alguno de estos eventos realizados o llevados a cabo en cualquier momento durante los cuatro años calendario (2021-2025) previos a la preparación del registro de votantes.
TAMBIÉN SE NOTIFICA que las peticiones para nominar candidatos para el cargo de miembro de la Junta de Educación deberán presentarse ante la secretaria del Distrito en su oficina, a más tardar el 20 de abril de 2026, de 9:00 a. m. a 5:00 p. m. Los puestos vacantes de la Junta de Educación no se consideran cargos específicos ni independientes; los candidatos se presentan en general. Las peticiones de nominación no deben describir ninguna vacante específica de la Junta para la cual se nomina al candidato, deben estar dirigidas a la secretaria del Distrito, deben estar firmadas por 25 votantes calificados del Distrito, deben indicar el nombre y la residencia de cada firmante y el nombre y la residencia del candidato.
TAMBIÉN SE NOTIFICA que, de acuerdo con una regla adoptada por la Junta de Educación en virtud de la Sección 2035 de la Ley de Educación, cualquier referéndum o propuesta para modificar el presupuesto, o que se presente por otra forma para su votación en dicha elección, debe realizarse ante la secretaria del Distrito con el tiempo suficiente para permitir el aviso de la inclusión de la propuesta con el aviso de audiencia pública,
votación de presupuesto y elección, si fuera necesaria su inclusión en dicho aviso, a más tardar el día 20 de marzo de 2026 a las 5:00 p. m., hora vigente, debe estar escrita o impresa en idioma inglés, debe estar dirigida a la secretaria del Distrito, debe estar firmada por al menos 75 votantes calificados del Distrito y debe indicar el nombre legible de cada firmante. Sin embargo, la Junta Escolar no considerará ninguna solicitud de presentar ante los votantes una propuesta cuyo propósito no esté dentro de sus facultades de decisión, que esté fuera de la ley o que no incluya una asignación específica cuando dicha propuesta requiera un gasto de dinero, o cuando exista alguna otra razón válida para excluir la propuesta de la boleta electoral.
TAMBIÉN SE NOTIFICA que esta Junta establecerá una reunión especial a partir de ese momento, dentro de las veinticuatro horas luego de la presentación ante la secretaria del Distrito de un informe escrito de los resultados del voto, con el fin de examinar y tabular dichos informes del resultado del voto y declarar su resultado; que, por el presente y de acuerdo con la Sección 2019-a, subdivisión 2b, de la Ley de Educación, la Junta se designa a sí misma como un grupo de presidentes de mesa para emitir y escrutar los votos durante dicha reunión especial de la Junta.
POR ORDEN DE LA JUNTA DE EDUCACIÓN, DISTRITO ESCOLAR NORTH MERRICK UNION FREE Pueblo de Hempstead, Merrick, Nueva York
JOANNE LONG, SECRETARIA DEL DISTRITO 1057 Merrick Avenue, Merrick, Nueva York
Merrick Herald Life: 2 de abril, 16 de abril, 30 de abril y 14 de mayo Long Island Business News: 3 de abril, 17 de abril, 1 de mayo y 15 de mayo 159373
LEGAL NOTICE AVISO LEGAL AVISO DE AUDIENCIA PÚBLICA, VOTACIÓN DEL PRESUPUESTO Y ELECCIÓN DE FIDEICOMISARIOS DE LA BIBLIOTECA PÚBLICA DE NORTH MERRICK POR LA PRESENTE SE
NOTIFICA que se llevará a cabo una audiencia pública de los votantes calificados por la Junta de Fideicomisarios de la Biblioteca Pública de North Merrick (la “Biblioteca”), municipio de Hempstead, condado de Nassau, Nueva York, el 21 de abril de 2026 a las 7:00 p. m. en la Biblioteca, 1691 Meadowbrook Road, North Merrick, Nueva York, con el propósito de analizar los gastos incluidos en el presupuesto propuesto de la Biblioteca para el año fiscal 2026-2027. Y POR LA PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA
ADICIONALMENTE que dicha votación del presupuesto y elección de los votantes calificados del distrito escolar público de North Merrick, condado de Nassau, estado de Nueva York, calificados para votar en reuniones escolares en dicho distrito, se llevará a cabo el miércoles 29 de abril de 2026, en la Biblioteca, 1691 Meadowbrook Road, North Merrick, Nueva York, entre las 10:00 a. m. y las 9:00 p. m., para votar mediante máquina de votación sobre los siguientes asuntos: 1. Adoptar el presupuesto anual de la Biblioteca para el año fiscal 2026-2027 y autorizar la porción necesaria de este a ser recaudada mediante impuestos sobre la propiedad gravable del Distrito. 2. Cualquier otra cuestión o proposición sobre asuntos, gastos o autoridad para imponer impuestos que pueda ser presentada para votación conforme a la Ley de Educación.
TÓMESE NOTA
ADICIONAL de que en dicha votación y elección que se llevará a cabo el 29 de abril de 2026, se elegirá a un (1) miembro para la Junta de Fideicomisarios de la siguiente manera: 1. Elegir a un (1) miembro de la Junta de Fideicomisarios de la Biblioteca para un período completo de cinco (5) años, que iniciará el 1 de julio de 2026 y concluirá el 30 de junio de 2031. El actual titular es William Pezzulo, cuyo mandato finaliza el 30 de junio de 2026.
TÓMESE NOTA
ADICIONAL de que las peticiones para nominar candidatos al cargo de miembro de la
Junta de Fideicomisarios de la Biblioteca deberán presentarse ante la secretaria del distrito escolar de North Merrick (el “Distrito”), Harold D. Fayette School, 1057 Merrick Avenue, North Merrick, NY, a más tardar el 30 de marzo de 2026, entre las 8:00 a. m. y 5:00 p. m. Se requerirá una petición separada, debidamente firmada por al menos 25 votantes calificados del distrito, conforme a la ley, en la que se indique la residencia de cada firmante, para nominar a un candidato a cada cargo individual. Las peticiones para miembros de la junta escolar deberán describir la vacante específica en la Junta de Educación para la cual se nomina al candidato; dicha descripción deberá incluir al menos la duración del mandato y el nombre del último titular, si lo hubiera. Y POR LA PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA que el registro personal de los votantes es obligatorio, y ninguna persona tendrá derecho a votar en la reunión cuyo nombre no aparezca en el registro del Distrito Escolar preparado al efecto. Los votantes calificados pueden registrarse cualquier día escolar con la secretaria del Distrito, Joanne Long, en el edificio de administración, 1057 Merrick Avenue en Merrick, entre las 9:00 a. m. y las 4:00 p. m. La inscripción en persona debe realizarse en la oficina de la secretaria del Distrito a más tardar el viernes 24 de abril de 2026 a las 4:00 p. m. Cualquier votante calificado de la Biblioteca que tenga dudas sobre si está registrado para votar en la votación del presupuesto y elección del 29 de abril de 2026, debe comunicarse con la secretaria del Distrito por correo electrónico a jlong@nmerrick.org.
La Junta de Registro se reunirá durante la elección del miércoles 29 de abril de 2026 en la Biblioteca con el propósito de preparar un registro para reuniones y elecciones posteriores a dicha votación del presupuesto o elección. Y POR LA PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA ADICIONALMENTE que una copia de dicho presupuesto o declaración puede
consultarse en el sitio web de la Biblioteca o solicitarse por cualquier residente del Distrito entre las 10:00 a. m. y las 5:00 p. m. a partir del 14 de abril de 2026, excepto domingos y días festivos, en la Oficina del Director de la Biblioteca, 1691 Meadowbrook Road, North Merrick, Nueva York, y en la Oficina del Director de cada uno de los siguientes edificios escolares a partir del 1 de abril de 2026 durante el horario escolar.
Camp Avenue School
Harold D. Fayette School
Old Mill School Estos documentos también estarán disponibles en el siguiente sitio web: https://www.nmerrickli brary.org/ Y POR LA PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA
ADICIONALMENTE que las boletas de voto en ausencia y las boletas de voto anticipado por correo estarán disponibles para la votación y elección. Las solicitudes para boletas en ausencia y boletas de voto anticipado por correo podrán ser presentadas a la secretaria del Distrito no antes del día 30 anterior a la elección para la cual se solicitan. Las solicitudes están disponibles en la Oficina de la Secretaria del Distrito, ubicada en Harold D. Layette School, 1057 Merrick Avenue, North Merrick, NY. Para que una boleta en ausencia o boleta de voto anticipado por correo sea enviada a su domicilio, la solicitud correspondiente, completa y firmada, debe estar en la oficina de la secretaria del Distrito a más tardar a las 4:00 p. m. del 28 de abril de 2026. La solicitud de boleta en ausencia o boleta de voto anticipado por correo puede realizarse en persona entre las 9:00 a. m. y las 4:00 p. m. cualquier día escolar y hasta las 5:00 p.m. del 28 de abril de 2026. Las boletas en ausencia deben ser recibidas por la Secretaria del Distrito a más tardar a las 5:00 p. m. del miércoles 29 de abril de 2026.
Y POR LA PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA ADICIONALMENTE que una lista de las personas a quienes se les emiten boletas en ausencia y boletas de voto anticipado por correo estará
Public Notices
disponible para inspección por los votantes calificados del Distrito a partir de la emisión de dichas boletas, así como la lista de votantes registrados, en la oficina de la secretaria del Distrito en cada uno de los cinco días previos a la elección, excluyendo domingos, entre las 8:00 a. m. y 4:00 p. m. en días hábiles, y el 25 de abril de 2026 con cita previa, así como en el lugar de votación el día de la elección.
Y POR LA PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA
ADICIONALMENTE que los votantes militares que actualmente no estén registrados para votar pueden solicitar su inscripción como votantes calificados del Distrito contactando a la secretaria del Distrito en 1057 Merrick Avenue, North Merrick, NY 11566, por correo electrónico a jlong@nmerrick.org, o por fax al (516) 282-1822, para recibir una solicitud de registro como votante calificado del Distrito para dicha votación y elección del 29 de abril de 2026. El votante militar puede indicar su preferencia para recibir la solicitud de registro por correo, fax o correo electrónico. La solicitud de registro debe ser recibida por la secretaria del Distrito a más tardar a las 5:00 p. m. del vigésimo sexto día antes de la votación, es decir, el 3 de abril de 2026. El registro de votantes preparado y archivado en la oficina de la secretaria del Distrito incluirá los nombres de todos los votantes militares que presenten un registro de votante militar válido. Se entiende por votante militar a un votante calificado del estado de Nueva York que se encuentre en servicio militar activo y, por lo tanto, estará ausente del Distrito en el que está calificado para votar el día de la inscripción o elección, o que sea dado de baja del servicio militar dentro de los 30 días previos a la elección; o al cónyuge, padre, hijo o dependiente del votante militar que lo acompañe o se encuentre con él, si también es votante calificado del estado de Nueva York y residente del mismo distrito escolar que el votante militar; o al personal militar que resida en una base militar dentro
de un distrito escolar de Nueva York durante un período de 30 días inmediatamente antes de dicha votación y elección.
Y POR LA PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA ADICIONALMENTE que los votantes militares que sean votantes calificados del Distrito pueden obtener una solicitud de boleta militar en la oficina de la secretaria del Distrito en 1057 Merrick Avenue, North Merrick, NY 11566, por correo electrónico a jlong@nmerrick.org, o por fax al (516) 282-1822. La solicitud de boleta militar debe ser devuelta en persona o por correo a la oficina de la secretaria del Distrito a más tardar a las 5:00 p. m. del vigésimo sexto día antes de la votación, es decir, el 3 de abril de 2026. El votante militar puede indicar su preferencia para recibir la solicitud de boleta militar por correo, fax o correo electrónico. Las boletas militares serán enviadas o distribuidas de otra manera a más tardar 25 días antes de la votación y elección, es decir, el 4 de abril de 2026. Las boletas militares deben ser recibidas por la secretaria del Distrito (1) antes del cierre de las urnas el 29 de abril de 2026, con el matasellos del Servicio Postal de EE. UU. o de un servicio postal extranjero, o con un sello de recepción fechado por otra agencia del gobierno de EE. UU.; o (2) a más tardar a las 5:00 p. m. del día de la votación y elección, firmadas y fechadas por el votante militar y un testigo, con una fecha que corresponda como máximo al día anterior a la votación y elección. Independientemente del modo de transmisión preferido, la solicitud de boleta militar y la boleta militar deben ser devueltas por correo o en persona. Los votantes calificados del Distrito podrán consultar la lista de todas las personas a quienes se les hayan emitido boletas militares, en la Oficina de la Secretaria del Distrito, durante el horario de oficina de 9:00 a. m. a 5:00 p. m., hasta el día de la votación y elección.
TÓMESE NOTA ADICIONAL de que cualquier propuesta o
cuestión que se coloque en las máquinas de votación deberá presentarse por escrito mediante una petición firmada por al menos 25 votantes calificados del Distrito y archivada en la oficina de la secretaria del Distrito a más tardar el 30 de marzo de 2026, excepto las peticiones relacionadas con una proposición que deba incluirse en el aviso de votación y elección. Las peticiones relacionadas con propuestas que deban incluirse en el aviso de votación y elección deberán presentarse sesenta (60) días antes de la votación y elección. Cualquier proposición puede ser rechazada por los fideicomisarios si el propósito de esta no está dentro de las facultades de los votantes, o si la proposición no incluye la apropiación específica necesaria, cuando se requiera el gasto de fondos según la proposición.
REQUISITOS PARA VOTAR:
1.Ser ciudadano estadounidense. 2.Tener dieciocho años o más.
3.Ser residente del Distrito por un período de treinta días o más inmediatamente anteriores a la elección en la que se ofrece a votar.
4.Estar registrado para votar.
TÓMESE NOTA ADICIONAL de que la votación sobre todas las proposiciones y la elección de candidatos en la votación y elección que se llevará a cabo el miércoles 29 de abril de 2026, se realizará mediante máquina de votación. Todas las referencias al momento, lugar y forma de las audiencias, registro y votación en la votación del presupuesto y la elección están sujetas a modificación de acuerdo con la legislación aplicable o por indicación de la entidad con jurisdicción sobre la Biblioteca.
En North Merrick, Nueva York con fecha del 2 de febrero de 2026 Por orden de la JUNTA DE FIDEICOMISARIOS DE LA BIBLIOTECA PÚBLICA DE NORTH MERRICK
North Merrick, Nueva York
Jacqueline Perez, directora 158876 LEGAL NOTICE
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF FORMATION of Speciale Law PLLC. Arts of Org filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 03/09/2026 Office location: Nassau County. SSNY designated as agent upon whom process may be served and shall mail copy of process against LLC to 1817 Gardenia Ave, Merrick, NY 11566. Purpose: legal services 159033
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU FIFTH THIRD BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, -againstJESSICA BRISTOLL, ET AL.
NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure and entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on January 15, 2026, wherein FIFTH THIRD BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION is the Plaintiff and JESSICA BRISTOLL, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on 05/12/2026 at 2:00PM, premises known as 2810 HEWLETT AVENUE, MERRICK, New York 11566; and the following tax map identification, 63-150-40.
ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN MERRICK, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK
Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 618175/2024. Kenneth Lawrence Gartner, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION
OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. 159527
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE, ON BEHALF OF THE HOLDERS OF THE ASSET BACKED SECURITIES CORPORATION HOME EQUITY LOAN TRUST, SERIES NC 2005-HE8, ASSET BACKED PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES NC 2005-HE8, Plaintiff AGAINST CHRISTOPHER BEDER, ELKE BEDER, Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered February 4, 2026, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on May 13, 2026 at 2:30 PM, premises known as 1046 North Merrick Avenue, Merrick, NY 11566. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at East Meadow, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 50 Block 597 and Lot 38. Approximate amount of judgment $504,544.88 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of fil ed Judgment Index #600944/2024. Oscar A. Prieto, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 23-001806 89222 159502
Francesco P. Tini, Esq., Referee LOGS Legal Group LLP Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff 175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624 (877) 430-4792
Dated: March 31, 2026 For sale information, please visit www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2831 159636
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a public hearing will be held by the Town Board of the Town of Hempstead, Town Meeting Pavilion, Hempstead Town Hall, 1 Washington Street, Hempstead, New York on May 12, 2026 at 10:30 o’clock in the morning of that day for the purpose of considering the application of WHALENECK MARINA LLC for a special use permit to use the premises as a gasoline filling station for boats/marina with gas, to install three (3) fueling dispensers and install two (2) underground petroleum storage tanks, both 12,000 gallon, fiberglass, doublewalled tanks. One compartmentalized with two (2) six thousand gallon tanks and one noncompartmentalized with 12,000 gallon of storage at the premises located on the south side of Whaleneck Drive between the Great South Bay and Whaleneck Drive, Merrick, New York
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU U.S. Bank National Trust Association, as Trustee for Adjustable Rate Mortgage Trust 2004-4, Adjustable Rate Mortgage-Backed Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2004-4, Plaintiff AGAINST Sharon Longo; et al., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered March 2, 2026, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on May 21, 2026, at 2:00PM, premises known as 1654 James Street, Merrick, NY 11566. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Merrick, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 55 Block 31 Lots 550, 573, 574 & 575. Approximate amount of judgment $788,693.50 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 604316/2024. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.”
An irregular parcel of land situated on south side of Whaleneck Drive between Whaleneck Drive and the Great South Bay with frontage on Whaleneck Drive with 810 feet on the Great South Bay in the Town of Hempstead, Nassau County, New York Maps pertaining to said proposal is on file with the application in the office of the undersigned and may be viewed during office hours.
ALL PERSONS INTERESTED in the subject matter will be given an opportunity to be heard at the time and place above designated. BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, N.Y. JOHN FERRETTI, Jr. SUPERVISOR KATE MURRAY TOWN CLERK Dated: April 28, 2026 Hempstead, N.Y. 159908
LEGAL NOTICE
Invitation to Bidders BOARD OF EDUCATION
Merrick Union Free School District PUBLIC NOTICE: is hereby given for separate and single prime contract sealed bids for: ROOF
RECONSTRUCTION AT: BIRCH ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Bids will be received by the School District, on Wednesday May 20, 2026 at 11a.m. in the District Offices at: 21 Babylon Road, Merrick, NY 11566, and at said time and place publicly opened and read aloud. Merrick Union Free School District is not responsible for bids opened prior to the bid opening if contract name, contract number, and opening date do not appear on the envelope. Bids opened prior to the date and time indicated are invalid. No phone, fax, or email bids will be accepted.
Beginning Thursday, April 30, 2026, the Contract Documents may be examined at the Office of the Architect, BBS Architects, Landscape Architects and Engineers, P.C., 244 East Main Street, Patchogue New York, (631-475-0349).
Complete digital sets of Contract Documents may be obtained online as a download for a non-refundable fee of One-Hundred ($100.00) Dollars at the following website:
bbs.biddyhq.com. Optionally, in lieu of digital copies, hard copies may be obtained through Biddy c/o Lohrius Blueprint, 226 Newtown Road, Plainview, NY 11803 (516-465-2880) upon a deposit of OneHundred ($100.00) Dollars for each complete set. Checks for deposits shall be made payable to the MERRICK UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT and may be uncertified. All bid addenda will be transmitted to registered plan holders via email and will be available at the above referenced websites. Any bidder requiring documents to be shipped shall make arrangements with the printer and pay for all packaging and shipping costs. Plan holders who have obtained hard copies of the bid documents will need to make the determination if hard copies of the addenda are required for their use, and coordinate directly with the printer for hard copies of addenda to be issued. There will be no charge for registered plan holders to obtain hard copies of the bid addenda. The bid deposit for hard copies will be returned upon receipt of plans and specifications, in good condition, within thirty days after bid date. A non-mandatory prebid conference and walk through is scheduled for Wednesday, May 6, 2026 at 3:30pm starting at the Birch Elementary School located at 2400 Central Parkway, Merrick, NY 11566. All prospective bidders are strongly encouraged to attend the pre-bid site walk through. The Contract will be awarded to the lowest responsible bidder or the proposals will be rejected within 45 days of the date of opening proposals. Bids shall be subject, however, to the discretionary right reserved by the School District to waive any informalities in, accept or reject any alternatives, reject any proposals and to advertise for new proposals, if in its opinion the best interest of the School District will thereby be promoted.
Bidder may not withdraw its bid until forty-five (45) days after the bid opening, except in accordance
Leading the conversation about mental health
nized in May. The alliance is a nonprofit that has been involved in public policy, help lines and educational services for 45 years, guided by its vision of a world in which all people have fulfilling lives regardless of their mental health struggles.
Andrew Buono, a senior at Calhoun, was one of the students who planned the event. “I think it’s a great organization,” he said of the alliance, “and we’re addressing such a serious topic in a fun and lighthearted way, where everybody can be involved.”
Fellow senior Ryan Karis saw the event as an important opportunity to connect with classmates while supporting a good cause.
“This is such a big part of our job as leaders at Calhoun,” she said. “Being a part of the Leadership Class, one thing that we focus on is volunteer work and service, and as a class, we decided upon this fundraiser, recognizing how important mental health is today, especially among students.
“We thought that bringing this event here today would be an amazing way to not only promote awareness for mental health within our school,” Karis added, “but also all around by donating all proceeds to NAMI.”
Teacher George Lessig was subject to a few throws, enthusiastic about adding some extra fun toward the end of the school year.
“I think it’s great any time you
could raise money for a good cause like mental health awareness, and teachers are willing to participate and have fun with their students,” Lessig said. “I guess any time there’s a chance to pie your teacher in the face,
Public Notices
with General Municipal Law Section 103(11). Each proposal submitted must be accompanied by bid security in an amount equal to ten percent (10%) of the total amount of the bid, as set forth more fully in the Instructions to Bidders. If restrictions applicable to construction activities in the Owner’s facilities are imposed as a result of State, Federal, or Local orders, laws, regulations or rules, and the duration of any such restrictions, the Owner may modify the construction schedule, including the anticipated start date, set forth in the Contract/ Bid Documents. By submitting a bid, the Bidder consents to any such schedule modification and further acknowledges and agrees that there shall be no additional compensation for the schedule modification caused directly or indirectly by such
restrictions. The Bidder further acknowledges and agrees that the sole remedy for any schedule modifications or delays caused directly or indirectly by such restrictions shall be an extension of time, to be determined in the sole discretion of the Owner.
Dated: April 16, 2026
By Order of: The Board of Education - Merrick Union Free School District 159906
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT
NASSAU COUNTY
U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS INDENTURE TRUSTEE ON BEHALF OF AND WITH RESPECT TO AJAX MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST 2021-D, MORTGAGEBACKED SECURITIES, SERIES 2021-D, Plaintiff against VICTOR PATERNO, et al Defendant(s) Attorney for Plaintiff(s) Leopold & Associates, PLLC, 80 Business Park Drive, Suite 110,
Armonk, NY 10504. Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered March 27, 2026, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on May 28, 2026 at 2:00PM. Premises known as 2335 Halyard Drive, Merrick, NY 11566. Sec 63 Block 329 Lot 21. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate lying and being at Merrick, in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $1,283,446.08 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 603711/2024. The foreclosure sale will be conducted in accordance with 10th
Judicial District’s Covid-19 Policies and foreclosure auction rules. The Referee shall enforce any rules in place regarding facial coverings and social distancing. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the Court Appointed Referee shall cancel the foreclosure auction. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.”
Linda S Agnew, Esq., Referee File # 12095024 159925
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kids will take advantage of that.”
School Counselor Brianna Scotland walked away from the booth smiling.
“A few of my lacrosse players had come up to me and asked if I would get pied today to raise money for mental
health,” she said. “So, naturally, I put my head in there, and I think I got 10 sponge pies to the face … it’s everywhere, but all for a good cause. I’m really happy that they collaborated for mental health this year.”
Joseph D’Alessandro/Herald photos
Sanford H. Calhoun High School teacher Kim miller was one of many faculty members who joined in the sponge-flinging fun on april 24.
the seniors of Calhoun’s Leadership classes planned a special way to end the semester: playfully settling the score with teachers while raising funds for peers.
Space Meets Style!
There’s not much creativity in suburban building design
Q. My daughter is in architecture school, and she has always had an interest in doing more artistic things, thinking outside the box, so to say. When she comes back home after architecture school, she wants to look for somewhere that she can do more artistic designs, not just the ordinary kinds of buildings that you see around us, for the most part. Where would you recommend that she look? What communities are more open to doing unusual designs?
A. Not on Long Island. I, too, was once a starry-eyed young architecture graduate, ready to change the world with groundbreaking designs that inspired forward thinking, etc. I even got an amazing opportunity I didn’t plan on when I was hired to work in a firm that landed three entire cities to redesign Jeddah, Jubail and Yanbu, Saudi Arabia.
Between my minor in city planning and studying with a group called Superstudio in Florence, Italy, I ,too, thought this was the most extraordinary opportunity. And it was, for a time, but the process of building design is very long, and cash flow changes by the day. The city design started with a lot of statistical analysis, referred to as the scope of work or program, which was better suited to an accountant, so that by the time the design phase began, the cost analysis showed that the exciting ideas had to be cut back.
On Long Island, government regulations such as zoning, parking, height restrictions, use allowances, groundwater containment you get the idea create so many restrictions that artistic creativity is limited. Then you encounter architectural review boards that won’t let you deviate from their version of local styles, such as no flat roofs in some communities, to adding colonial trim details and only specific colors. If you ever notice in architecture magazines, most of the more creative, curvy or flat-roof homes are somewhere out away from cities. The land of the free isn’t so free when it comes to suburban building design.
Your daughter will need to search for communities with fewer restrictions, away from populated or conservative towns and villages, if she wants to generate her ideas. You could bond over road trips, like my family did. My father was an aerospace engineer who worked on Saturn, Gemini and Apollo rockets, and my mother was an interior designer, so we set out to find the latest new designs by piling into the family car and traveling all over. Fortunately, with the internet, your daughter can research the regulations of community governments before you drive off to the horizon.
Remember, some things that stand out may have taken many years to even get permission because of restrictions and politics. For example, the Guggenheim Museum, on Manhattan’s Central Park, a complete departure from convention, took 14 years to obtain approvals to build. Even the replacement World Trade Center tower took three years to get final approvals. Your daughter must persist if she wants to fulfill her dreams. Good luck!
Ask The Architect
Monte Leeper
EMPLOYMENT
Help Wanted
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Assistant and Porter needed for Management Co. in Long Beach
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CIRCULATION ASSOCIATE Full Time/Part Time
Richner Communications, publisher of Herald community newspapers has an excellent opportunity for a FT/PT Customer Service Clerk in our busy Circulation Department. Basic customer service and administrative responsibilities include: heavy computer work, answering phones, making phone calls, entering orders, faxing, filing, etc. STRONG knowledge of EXCEL a must! Knowledge of DATABASE maintenance or postal regulations a big plus. Qualified Candidates must be computer literate, able to multi-task, dependable, reliable, organized, energetic, detail oriented and able to work well under deadlines. Salary Range is $17 per hour to $20 per hour.
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EDITOR/REPORTER
Part Time & Full Time. The award-winning Herald Community Newspapers group, covering Nassau County's North and South Shores with hard-hitting news stories and gracefully written features, seeks a motivated, energetic and creative editor/reporter to join our dynamic (and awesome) team! This education and general assignment reporting position offers a unique experience to learn from some of the best in the business. Historically, reporters who have launched their careers with us have gone on to The New York Times, Newsweek, Newsday, the New York Daily News, New York Post, CNN, BBC, NBC News and The Daily Mail, among many others. We look for excellent writers who are eager to learn, enhance their skills, and become well-established and respected journalists in our industry. Salary range is from $20K to $45K To apply: Send a brief summary in the form of a cover letter describing your career goals and what strengths you can bring to our newsroom, along with a resume and three writing samples to jbessen@liherald.com
MAILROOM/ WAREHOUSE HELP
Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for a FULL-TIME & PART-TIME mailroom/warehouse helper in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Forklift experience is a plus and heavy lifting is required. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $20 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com
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Looking for an aggressive self starter who is great at making and maintaining relationships and loves to help businesses grow by marketing them on many different advertising platforms. You will source new sales opportunities through inbound lead follow-up and outbound cold calls. Must have the ability to understand customer needs and requirements and turn them in to positive advertising solutions. We are looking for a talented and competitive Inside Sales Representative that thrives in a quick sales cycle environment. Compensation ranges from $35,360 + commissions and bonuses to over $100,000 including commission and bonuses. We also offer health benefits, 401K and paid time off. Please send cover letter and resume with salary requirements to ereynolds@liherald.com Call 516-569-4000 X286
OUTSIDE SALES
Richner Communications, One of the Fastest Growing Media, Event and Communications Companies on Long Island is Seeking a Sales/Marketing Candidate to Sell our Print Media Products and our Digital, Events, Sponsorships. Earning potential ranges from $35,360 plus commission and bonuses to over $100,000 including commissions and bonuses. Compensation is based on Full Time hours Eligible for Health Benefits, 401k and Paid Time Off. Please Send Cover Letter and Resume with Salary Requirements to rglickman@liherald.com or Call 516-569-4000 X250
PARISH ADMINISTRATOR PT. Immediate. Weekdays. Organized, writing, social media, office management skills. $22- $27/hr. Email resume/ cover letter church@clcwantagh.org.
PRINTING PRESS OPERATORS FT & PT. Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for Printing Press Operators in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges from $20 per hour to $30 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com RECEPTIONIST F/T
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Federal funding has helped science thrive on L.I.
While the headlines have focused on science funding cuts at elite national universities, we shouldn’t lose sight of the local impact. Long Island is home to major research centers, including Brookhaven National Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, the Feinstein Institutes at Northwell and Stony Brook University, among others.
The $47 billion in cuts to the National Science Foundation and other federal sources of research funding affect those institutions, too. The administration has halted thousands of approved grants for projects focusing on infectious diseases, energy management and quantitative computing, while also releasing staff and curtailing new funding, causing major upheavals in research.
Some now argue that the United States model for research, involving universities, research institutes and private corporations, should change because there’s too much reliance on unstable federal support. Fair enough, but first we should ask how we got here, and how federal support became so important. Our current research enterprise originated in World War II. Reflecting on the
immense and immediate response of universities and scientific laboratories to the war effort, Dr. Vannevar Bush, an engineer at MIT, accepted President Harry Truman’s invitation to write a report on what worked and how to plan for the future.
years. They include support for federal student aid, immigration policy and grant programs for basic and applied research at universities and private companies.
RBush assembled several committees of experts to examine the issues, and wrote an essay entitled, “Science: The Endless Frontier.” In it he summarized the various reports and recommended goals and a strategy for the president to consider.
First, Bush highlighted the fact that many of the discoveries and advances that aided the war effort were made by scholars who had migrated to the United States from countries under totalitarian rule. One conclusion was that immigration was an important source of intellectual talent. A second was that the war had kept millions of Americans from advanced education, and that we should create a program that offered them opportunities to earn college and higher degrees. The G.I. Bill was one result.
esearch here has led the world, and Washington shouldn’t forget that.
The war also gave birth to the Grumman Corporation, which mass-produced aircraft as well as an innovative wing configuration that made it possible to fit more planes on aircraft carriers. The story of how this unique folding feature was developed from a model using two paper clips and a soap eraser is engineering legend. That same spirit launched the lunar module that transported two astronauts to the surface of the moon.
Another example is Brookhaven National Laboratory, established on an unused Army base in1946 by a consortium of nine major universities. Today it is a leader in high-energy physics, materials chemistry, national security and nonproliferation, neurosciences and computational sciences.
A significant source of science innovation is Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, home to eight Nobel Prize winners in physiology and medicine. It has an education division that awards doctoral degrees, hosts international conferences and partners with regional medical schools affiliated with Hofstra/Northwell and Stony Brook University.
Stony Brook’s prominence is grounded in biomedical science, including work that led to the development of magnetic resonance imaging, which was recognized with a Nobel Prize in 2003. Other research is dedicated to understanding and addressing water quality challenges on Long Island, in the interest of restoring the health of bays and waterways, safeguarding fisheries and protecting the coastal environment that is so central to the region’s identity and economics.
A third conclusion was that the country needed systemic support for ongoing research and advanced learning not limited to defense. The National Science Foundation was another result.
The models that Bush’s report inspired have worked well for over 80
The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research at Northwell Health, established in 1999, is home to 50 research labs, 2,500 clinical trial studies and 5,000 professional and support staff. They conduct research in molecular medicine, genetics, cancer, neuroscience, behavioral science and bioelectronic medicine.
Together, these Long Island enterprises employ thousands and operate with millions of dollars in federal grants. They contribute to improved health outcomes and the economic well-being of individuals and communities. The products and services they develop create businesses, expand services and contribute tax revenue that supports our schools and public services. Rather than shutter these programs, let’s work together to remember why they exist and consider how they can improve even further.
Robert Scott is president emeritus of Adelphi University and the author of “How University Boards Work.”
My colleagues in Congress did the right thing — finally
In January, I received a phone call at my Garden City office that no parent should ever have to make.
Andrew Jedlicka, a father from Merrick, whose 5-year-old son is fighting a rare and debilitating genetic disorder, was desperately seeking help. The only lab in the world treating, and potentially capable of curing, his son was set to shut down because its federal funding had run out.
The lab, in Queens, had been partially funded by grants from a federal program known as the Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business Technology Transfer. The program is branded as “America’s Seed Fund” for high-risk, highreward medical and technological research and development that is often not attractive to investors. The federal funding is the crucial factor to incentivize and enable private-sector investment
in these types of innovations.
For the Jedlicka family and others, SBIR/STTR program dollars promise a future for a child whose life depends on them. And the program not only aids the families and smallbusiness owners who directly benefit from it; it also grows and strengthens our economy and enhances the United States’ competitive edge and dominance in medicine and technology. For every dollar the federal government invests in SBIR/STTR, taxpayers see a return of $22 to $33 in economic impact.
I helped a unique lab in Queens get some of those crucial federal funds.
The program has supported everything from new, innovative cancer treatments to semiconductors that power our lives to the world’s smallest heart pumps. It should have been reauthorized without delay. Unfortunately, it ground to a halt in late 2025, leaving small businesses and families like the Jedlickas in peril.
Andrew’s plea was heartbreaking — I certainly understood the anguish and
fear his family felt, and was determined to break the gridlock and get his family the help they needed. Reauthorizing the program had broad bipartisan support — a bill had passed the House, but because of delays in the Senate, the program expired without being reauthorized.
I immediately reached out to and pushed my colleagues on the Senate Small Business Committee, including the chair, to work across the aisle to reauthorize the program. Following my efforts, the Senate finally reached a bipartisan deal to reauthorize funding for five years.
After passage of a revised bill in the Senate, followed by the House, with a bipartisan, veto-proof majority, we thought the Jedlicka family’s nightmare might be over. But then, instead of moving to the president’s desk, the bill inexplicably sat on the House speaker’s desk for weeks, awaiting his signature. There was no good reason for this, and on April 1, I demanded that the speaker
act. Two days later, the bill was at last presented to the president, and on April 13 it was finally signed into law.
I’m glad colleagues on both sides of the aisle came together to finally reauthorize the SBIR/STTR program. This long-overdue victory belongs to Andrew and his son, and it is an honor to fight on their behalf. Andrew’s relentless advocacy shows how one father can make a real difference for Americans at a time when constant partisanship in Washington leaves many families feeling helpless. His family, and others facing the diagnosis of a rare disease, should never have faced this uncertainty.
My office is now working to ensure that the National Institutes of Health moves the funding to the lab immediately. We have extended vital medical research funding for the next five years, but Washington should not need a crisis to compel it to act. I will never stop fighting for Long Island families, and will use every tool available to cut through the partisanship and political games that put their futures at risk.
Laura A. Gillen represents the 4th Congressional District.
Long Island must make pedestrians safer now
atroubling pattern is emerging across Nassau and Suffolk counties — and it should force leaders in both to act with urgency. In recent weeks, there have been a number of serious and fatal crashes involving pedestrians in our communities, from Wantagh to Freeport, Rockville Centre and Lindenhurst.
In Wantagh on March 9, a 53-year-old woman was killed when a pickup truck struck her while it was making a turn at an intersection. On April 4, In Freeport, a 66-year-old man died after being hit while crossing Merrick Road, with police later charging the driver for a hitand-run.
In Rockville Centre on April 10, a 76-year-old woman died of injuries she sustained when she was struck by a vehicle at an intersection. And in Lindenhurst on April 15, an 85-year-old woman was seriously injured when she was hit by a vehicle making a left turn. These were not isolated incidents. They were part of a steady, devastating rhythm of crashes that too often end in tragedy for people doing something routine — crossing the street.
Even in Long Beach, where city officials are now reviewing traffic data in an effort to improve safety, the response remains reactive. Studying the problem isn’t the same as solving it. Long Island has reached the point where analysis
letters
Ferretti
favors status quo amid the housing crisis
To the Editor:
The “local control” lauded by Hempstead Town Supervisor John Ferretti in his April 16-22 op-ed, “REVIVE Act is the wrong solution to the housing crisis,” is spelled NIMBY, for Not In My Backyard, and he spells it out by rote. On Long Island, local control is widespread, a slogan for a politician’s assertion of veto power.
It is, in effect, a feudal remnant of the creation days of “suburbia,” shaped by the interests of bankers, builders, insurance and real estate. It was an illusion then, and is now a distraction from broader visions needed for a better future. Mr. Ferretti’s claim that REVIVE is the wrong solution suggests some better choice on offer. The one he offers is the status quo — a denial, in effect, that any crisis exists.
The REVIVE Act will benefit the same interests named above, and will not solve the housing crisis alone, but “house” construction is core to any solution, and thus the right one for the present.
must give way to action.
The uncomfortable truth is that Nassau and Suffolk are still operating under an outdated suburban model of road design that prioritizes speed and vehicle flow over human safety. Wide lanes encourage faster driving. Long crossing distances expose pedestrians to danger. Intersections are designed for convenience, not caution.
We do not need to reinvent the solution. We need to look west.
New York City, through its Vision Zero initiative, has spent years reshaping its streets with a different philosophy: that no loss of life on the road is acceptable. That approach has led to lower speed limits, redesigned intersections, pedestrian islands, expanded enforcement and a fundamental shift in the way streets are used. The results haven’t been perfect, but they have been meaningful. Fatalities have declined over time, and the conversation has changed.
Now the city is going even further, considering a “full stop” rule that would require drivers and cyclists to remain stopped at intersections until pedestrians have completely crossed the street — not just cleared their immediate path. It is a simple idea with powerful implications: The pedestrian comes first, fully and without compromise.
Long Island should not wait to see how that proposal plays out. The princi-
ple behind it is already clear, logical, and overdue here.
And not every solution requires tearing up asphalt. Some changes can happen quickly: reducing speed limits on local roads, increasing enforcement of failure-to-yield laws, improving signage and crosswalk visibility, and launching public-awareness campaigns that reinforce a culture of caution.
The data makes this urgency undeniable. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, roughly 90 percent of crashes in the United States are tied, at least in part, to human error — speeding, distraction, poor judgment. That means safer systems are not optional; they are essential. Road design must anticipate mistakes and reduce their consequences.
Long Island has the benefit of proximity to one of the largest real-world laboratories for traffic safety reform. The question is whether its leaders are willing to learn from its city neighbors. How many more deaths will it take before that happens?
The recent fatalities in our area shouldn’t fade into the background of the next news cycle. They should serve as a call to action. Nassau and Suffolk must act now to prioritize pedestrians, redesign dangerous roads and adopt proven safety measures. The cost of waiting is already far too high.
opinions Advanced economics: the bacon, egg and cheese effect
economic trends remain solid on Long Island and across most of the united States, yet consumers still seem “unhappy.” Measures of sentiment, both local and national, are more downbeat than some relevant information would suggest.
For example, inflation, as measured in the consumer price index, continues to moderate from the highs of 2022, up 3.3 percent in March nationwide, while our region was up 3.6 percent. Even with higher gas prices likely to fuel an uptick in inflation overall, we’ve been seeing moderating trends.
Even so, the cumulative increase in inflation since early 2017 remains roughly 32 percent. Prices have gone up over the past five years, and consumers haven’t forgotten it, even if the recent trends are more moderate — or even if they temporarily move in the wrong direction.
Letters
Do your part to keep construction workers safe
To the Editor:
The perception that prices are still going higher can be partially attributed to what we call the Snickers Bar Effect: consumers remember the prices of more frequent purchases. Economists at uBS began examining this issue in early 2024, and it remains highly relevant today. In 2020, the popular candy bar cost $1.50, but today it costs $2.39, an increase of nearly 80 percent. Most consumers, however, don’t know how much their car insurance has gone up over the past few years.
Ysis suggests that in 2015, the average price of a BEc was $3, and in 2020 it was $4.25. Today it’s closer to $7.50. People see the higher prices every morning, which reminds them daily that expenses are higher.
ou’re more likely to know about its price increases than those of your insurance.
We’re all much more aware of the price increases on everyday products, which creates a sense that inflation is still surging. So, even though it has in fact been moderating, most consumers still feel that prices are too high.
For those who don’t scarf down a mix of savory peanuts, caramel and chocolate for breakfast, lunch or a snack several times a week, let’s drill down to a very Long Island-specific product: the bacon, egg and cheese sandwich. Nearly every neighborhood deli or bodega serves it, on a roll or a bagel. Our analy-
Last week was National Work Zone Awareness Week, a nationwide campaign reminding motorists that warmer temperatures bring an increase in construction activities along our transportation system.
Here on Long Island, the state Department of Transportation is scheduled to perform hundreds of millions of dollars’ worth of paving and bridge projects this year. For the safety of the highway workers doing this work, NYSDOT will deploy signs, cones, barrels and attenuators to make these work zones as visible as possible. Motorists, however, must also do their part to ensure that our workers return home safely each night: slow down, move over and stay alert. Honoring this simple request can save a life.
Earlier this year, a NYSDOT worker was senselessly struck by a vehicle while setting up a closure on the Long Island Expressway. It’s a miracle that worker survived. Throughout this construction season, in an effort to better protect our workers, NYSDOT will be working with our police partners on targeted enforcement, and will be deploying automated speed-enforcement cameras in our work zones. Thank you for doing your part to keep our highway workers safe.
RIcHARD cAuSIN L.I. regional director, New York State Department of Transportation Hauppauge
To be clear, it isn’t just Snickers, bacon, egg and cheeses or even overall inflation that weighs on purchasers on Long Island. Data shows that consumers are also worried about possible layoffs, the seeming likelihood of artificial intelligence replacing jobs, and the so-called K-shaped economy, in which high earners thrive while low earners struggle. These concerns are real, even if they aren’t fully showing up in the hard economic data.
Recent survey data reinforces this point. A few months ago, PKF O’connor Davies, in partnership with the Siena Research Institute, released its annual Long Island Economic Survey–Outlook 2026. Like consumers, Long Island businesses also seem more worried about the economy, even though current trends are solid. Economic sentiment in
Framework by Tim Baker
the survey is the third lowest since 1995. Even with March housing data showing continued strength and the stock market rebounding dramatically, affordability and inflation for residents of Nassau and Suffolk counties remain issues. If you bought a home five or more years ago, you are sitting on strong price appreciation. But if you’re entering the market today, there aren’t enough reasonably priced alternatives. Entry-level buyers are being squeezed, and affordability remains a major problem. That’s why the Long Island Association and business leaders have been advocating for federal, state and local support for more housing development. Sentiment matters, because it drives spending, hiring and investment decisions. When consumers and business leaders feel downbeat, they may pull back — even in a relatively solid economy. until they begin to feel relief in their day-to-day purchases, housing becomes more attainable and there’s less volatility in economic news, that disconnect is likely to persist, even if the numbers continue to tell a more positive story.
Steven Kent is chief economist at the Long Island Association. Comments? Skent@longislandassociation.org.
Showing the teachers a few new tricks, much to the amusement of their students — Hewlett High School